Information Utilization among Trainees on Usage of Mosquito Nets Project in Adansi North District of the Ashanti Region

Abstract

Malaria continues to be a global threat to lives, especially against pregnant women and young children in Africa ((World Malaria Report 2019). The report indicates that an estimated 228 million cases of malaria occurred worldwide in 2018, with Africa Region accounting for 213 million (93%). According to Mba and Aboh (2017) the disease is hyper-endemic in Ghana, accounting for 44% of Out Patients attendance, 13% of all hospital deaths, and 22% of mortality among children less than five years of age. Ghana, like other malaria endemic countries, has evolved strategies, including the use of Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) to control the scourge. Through a case study, this research explored the impact of information utilization strategy among trainees on ITNs uses in some communities in Adansi North District of the Ashanti Region. The study adopted qualitative research methodology, based on in-depth interviews, focus group discussions as well as informal observation techniques to gather original evidence. The findings was that information utilization among ITNs trainees in the Adansi North was effective, however, trainees needed to review their strategy on imparting knowledge and education on the ITNs uses to beneficiaries, to ensure success of ITNs projects in the communities. The study has to some extent, attempted to address key questions relating to the role of trainees on mosquito bed net projects, the mode of communication between trainees of ITNs and beneficiary communities, the impact of information dissemination in the ITN project and the extent to which beneficiary communities understand the ITNs bed project. This becomes a useful data for future researchers on ITNs uses and their impact on malaria prevention and control