Amidst a malaria outbreak in Namibia, entrepreneur Urbano Shetunyenga introduces Omwe, a cost-effective insecticide paper that repels mosquitoes. Registered with health authorities, this innovative product provides effective mosquito control without the need for electricity or specialized training. Shetunyenga aims to improve accessibility for low-income communities, while addressing the challenges of product registration and consumer education. Health officials emphasize preventive measures and timely medical intervention to address the surge in malaria cases.
In response to the escalating malaria outbreak in Namibia, local entrepreneur Urbano Shetunyenga has launched Omwe, an innovative insecticide paper designed to offer an affordable means of combating malaria-carrying mosquitoes. As the managing director of Omwe Insecticides Investments CC, Shetunyenga recognized a significant market demand for low-cost mosquito control solutions.
Shetunyenga conceived Omwe while studying in London in 2017, aspiring to contribute to malaria eradication efforts in Namibia. His partnerships facilitated the development of new, cost-effective malaria vector control tools tailored for local needs. The product, registered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform in 2022, features transfluthrin, an active ingredient authorized by the World Health Organisation.
Omwe effectively neutralizes mosquitoes within five minutes, providing up to seven hours of protection for an area of ten square meters. Importantly, this product does not necessitate electricity, trained personnel, or costly equipment; users simply ignite the paper, extinguish the flame, and allow the smoke to deter mosquitoes.
Offering a safer alternative to conventional mosquito coils, Omwe includes Bitrex, a bittering agent that mitigates the risk of accidental ingestion by children. Shetunyenga states that Omwe complements existing malaria prevention methods, such as long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor residual spraying, by enhancing overall protection.
The need for new prevention strategies is pressing, as the Ministry of Health and Social Services has reported a surge in malaria cases due to increased rainfall and stagnant water in northern regions, conducive to mosquito breeding. Health officials have urged the public to adopt preventive measures including the implementation of insecticides and proper sanitation around homes.
In light of these challenges, Shetunyenga is dedicated to making Omwe accessible to low-income communities, collaborating with public institutions and NGOs for subsidized distribution. However, he also faces obstacles such as a protracted registration process and the imperative of consumer education regarding proper utilization of the product.
Clinical data underscored by the health ministry’s executive director, Ben Nangombe, highlights that by January 19, Namibia witnessed approximately 3,000 reported malaria cases, with a notable proportion being imported from neighboring countries. With a total of 5,898 malaria cases recorded between December 2024 and January 19, including fatalities, swift action is critical.
Nangombe has urged the public to cooperate with healthcare teams for necessary residual spraying and to seek medical attention at the onset of malaria symptoms to prevent severe health consequences. He emphasizes the urgency of timely intervention in combating this health crisis effectively.
In conclusion, Urbano Shetunyenga’s introduction of Omwe represents a pivotal advancement in Namibia’s fight against malaria. By addressing the urgent need for affordable mosquito control, he aims to assist local communities while also confronting significant challenges. With collaboration between sectors and public cooperation, there is hope for mitigating the malaria outbreak effectively. Efforts must focus on enhancing awareness and ensuring accessibility to innovative solutions like Omwe.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
