Nets for life launched in Botswana

| Thursday November 20, 2008 00:00

The three-year, $12 million Initiative was designed to reduce the transmission of the malarial parasite through Improved preventive measures. Standard Chartered Bank has partnered with Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) to embark on this program, which has already distributed 1 million long lasting Insecticide-Treated Nets since 2006.

In addition to Standard Chartered's financial commitment and on-the-ground support, the Bank has been instrumental in setting up a robust governance structure around 'the programme and has representation on all the key governance committees.

Since April 2006, Nets for Life has already been launched in 14 countries- Angola, Burundi, DR Congo, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Madagascar, and Malawi. Mozambique, Namibia. Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia.

A total of over 5,000 malaria agents have been trained.

Speaking at the launch at Maun Kgotla on the 15th November David Cutting, Standard Chartered Bank CEO for Botswana said: 'Malaria continues to be a significant health risk in many of our markets In Africa,'

'I have great pleasure in launching Nets for Life In Botswana today. Across Africa, the programme has already been a great success. It is focused on the reduction of the transmission of the malarial parasite, through mosquito control programmes and improved preventative measures. The distribution of long-lasting insecticide treated nets is being complemented by parallel educational programs which will raise awareness on the long-term sustainable use of the nets. Our primary focus is on the most vulnerable people, children under 5, pregnant women, the chronically ill and the elderly. We not only distribute nets to assist with prevention. In addition malaria education is being actively encouraged. A total of 40 'Community Agents' have been trained and these agents will be visiting homes, and using local community gatherings to carry out educational programs.

'I believe this initiative will contribute significantly to the overall health of our local communities. The launch of Nets for Life is another example of Standard Chartered Bank Botswana's commitment to building a sustainable business and further strengthens our Brand promise as the right partner to our stakeholders,' he said.