PORT SUDAN, 28 May 2025– The Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with UNICEF and the Global Fund, has launched a large-scale campaign to distribute nearly 15.6 million insecticide-treated bed nets across Sudan. The initiative aims to curb the spread of malaria and protect vulnerable communities, including children, from the deadly disease. An additional 500,000 nets will be provided in healthcare facilities, specifically targeting antenatal care and immunization programs.
Each bed net is designed to cover a bed, protecting an average of two people, and the distribution is expected to benefit around 28 million individuals in 14 states nationwide.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has displaced millions, many of whom are living in overcrowded settlements with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. The upcoming rainy season poses an increased risk of malaria transmission, making the bed net distribution even more critical.
As thousands of displaced people return home, they face dire conditions, particularly in areas where health infrastructure has been severely damaged. The collapse of local services and limited access to malaria prevention tools leave these communities especially vulnerable. The bed net campaign is seen as a vital measure to protect these populations from the threat of malaria.
Dr. Heitham M Awadalla, Sudan’s Minister of Health, emphasized the significance of the campaign. “This bed net distribution, supported by UNICEF and the Global Fund, is one of the largest malaria prevention efforts in Sudan’s history. It marks a crucial step toward eliminating malaria in Sudan,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of GAVI’s Phase Two malaria vaccination plan, which will complement the bed net initiative and contribute to a stronger malaria response.
According to the 2024 World Malaria Report, more than 1.3 million malaria cases were reported in Sudan in 2023, with children accounting for 22% of these cases. The actual numbers may be even higher, as the ongoing conflict has hindered accurate reporting. Malaria remains a major health threat to the Sudanese population in 2025.
UNICEF’s Sheldon Yett stressed the importance of the campaign: “Malaria is one of the deadliest diseases for children, and the conflict has made many families more vulnerable. UNICEF is proud to partner with the Ministry of Health and Global Fund in this lifesaving initiative.”
Insecticide-treated bed nets are one of the most effective tools to prevent malaria, particularly for high-risk groups such as young children, pregnant women, and families in malaria-endemic regions. The campaign will be rolled out in phases, accompanied by public awareness efforts to educate communities about malaria risks and prevention methods.
Local health workers and community leaders will engage in house visits, demonstrations, and follow-ups to ensure widespread use of the nets. The initiative also includes the provision of anti-malarial medications, rapid diagnostic tests, and efforts to strengthen Sudan’s overall healthcare infrastructure.
Lyne Soucy, Regional Manager for the Middle East and North Africa Region at the Global Fund, highlighted the importance of the intervention. “In the face of ongoing conflict and displacement, this bed net campaign is essential,” she said. “By partnering with Sudan’s health authorities and UNICEF, we are committed to reaching the most vulnerable with lifesaving protection.”
The bed net distribution is part of a broader effort to reduce malaria’s impact in Sudan, a country facing significant health challenges due to the ongoing conflict.
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