As part of our ongoing efforts to support Laos’ malaria elimination goals, the USAID Global Health Supply Chain Program-Procurement and Supply Management project delivered 220,314 mosquito nets to Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Phayvanh Keopaseuth at a handover ceremony in Vientiane on February 25, 2022. These long-lasting insecticide treated nets, funded by USAID through the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) will be distributed to vulnerable communities across Laos. Savannakhet Province, where malaria cases remain especially high, will receive a large portion of the bednets. This donation will contribute to the Government of Laos’ national mass bed net campaign, supporting the Ministry of Health’s National Malaria Control Program in the fight against malaria during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The bed net donation was presented at the handover ceremony by Michael Ronning, USAID Country Representative to Laos. Among his remarks, he stated, “Our health assistance is a central part of the U.S.-Lao Comprehensive Partnership. The United States is proud to continue working with the Lao PDR government and our public health partners through this contribution of lifesaving supplies to eliminate malaria by 2030.”
Over the past 10 years, USAID has provided technical assistance, supplied equipment, and distributed more than one million mosquito nets, nearly one million malaria diagnostic test kits, and antimalarial drugs and treatments valued at more than $5.1 million USD. This handover is the most recent example of U.S support to Laos in their fight against malaria and we are proud to assist in ensuring that the people of Laos can live happier, healthier lives.
