ASSESSMENT OF FACTORS MILITATING AGAINST MALARIA CONTROL PROGRAMMES IN KUMO, AKKO L.G.A. GOMBE STATE

Abstract Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites of the Plasmodium species, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. The objective of the study was to identify the level of awareness of malaria control programmes among residents of Kumo. A descriptive survey design was employed in collecting data through questionnaire and oral interview. The target population was one hundred and fourty respondents (140), simple random technique was used in selecting the respondent and the data obtained was analyzed and presented in a frequency distribution table. Furthermore, the finding shows that out of 140 respondents, 68 (48.6%) were male, while 72 (51.4%) were female. Majority of respondents, 110 (78.6%), were aware of malaria control programmes in their area, while 30 (21.4%) indicated they were not aware. It was also indicated that the most commonly identified challenge was the presence of stagnant water (103 respondents, 73.6%), followed by unreliable drug supply (99, 70.7%), and poor waste disposal (94, 67.1%). Other notable issues included inconsistent use of mosquito nets (60.7%) and poor government support (58.6%). This recommended that local authorities should implement routine drainage clearing and eliminate stagnant water sources to reduce mosquito breeding.