Rwanda is leading the way in leveraging drone technology to combat malaria. In 2019, the Rwandan government partnered with Charis UAS, a Rwandan drone startup, to tackle rising malaria cases caused by changes in mosquito behavior and increased irrigation agriculture.
The 2020 pilot showed drones to be an efficient and effective malaria fighting tool. Through the use of drones and advanced 3D geospatial data, Rwanda has pioneered an innovative approach to tackling malaria.
Rwanda’s Partnership with Charis UAS
Charis UAS collaborated with the Rwanda Biomedical Centre to develop a comprehensive protocol for utilizing drones and advanced geospatial data in malaria control.
The partnership aimed to address the rise of malaria cases on the African continent, particularly in Rwanda, where approximately 3.7 million cases are reported annually. Recognizing the need for a multifaceted approach, Rwanda became the first country to integrate and deploy drones in the fight against malaria.
The success of the pilot project led to the expansion of drone activities in Rugende and Kabuye, two heavily impacted communities. Drones are now utilized to map mosquito breeding sites, enabling targeted interventions.
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Following mapping, drones are equipped to spray larvicides in these breeding sites. Additionally, drones are used for community mobilization, equipped with megaphones to deliver pre-recorded messages about malaria prevention measures.
Remarkable Impact and Testimonials:
Drone-based larviciding has already yielded significant results. The Rwanda Biomedical Center reported a remarkable 90.6% reduction in malaria cases in the Jabana Sector, from 12,041 to 1,129 cases, within just eight months of drone intervention.
Justine Uwingeneye, a healthcare worker in Jabana Sector, Gasabo District, said that she used to attend to at least 5 children per day, three of whom had malaria. However, she testified that after the intervention, it was no longer the case.
Expanding the Innovative Approach
Building on the success achieved, Charis UAS plans to scale up its activities to four more districts in Rwanda and extend its reach to other African countries.
The use of drones not only benefits public health but also has socio-economic advantages. Farmers and businesses gain an additional three hours of working time, contributing to economic growth.
Setting a New Standard for Innovation
Rwanda’s pioneering use of drones in malaria control has set a new standard for innovation in public health. This groundbreaking approach has garnered attention from other countries facing similar challenges.
For instance, Côte d’Ivoire has adopted Charis UAS drones to combat malaria in six endemic regions, impacting over 5 million people.
Rwanda’s innovative approach to malaria control, utilizing drones and advanced geospatial data, has revolutionized the fight against the disease. The use of drones to map breeding sites, spray larvicides, and deliver preventive messages has proven highly effective in reducing malaria cases.
Rwanda’s success has paved the way for other countries to adopt this groundbreaking approach, offering hope for a future where malaria is eradicated. As Charis UAS expands its activities, the potential to transform public health and socio-economic conditions across Africa becomes increasingly promising.
