Djibouti has taken a significant step forward in the fight against malaria with the launch of its first full season of pilot releases of Friendly Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes in Djibouti City.
According to reports by Innovation Village, this innovative approach represents a major advancement in the development of sustainable, targeted solutions to control the disease-spreading Anopheles stephensi mosquito, a highly invasive species responsible for a worrying resurgence of malaria in urban areas across Africa.
“The Djibouti Friendly Mosquito Program is a collaborative effort between Djibouti’s National Malaria Control Program, the Association Mutualis, and Oxitec Ltd, a global leader in biological pest control. This partnership leverages local expertise and Oxitec’s proven Friendly™ technology to address the rising urban malaria threat that poses significant challenges to public health in the region,” the website stated.
The release of non-biting Friendly Anopheles stephensi male mosquitoes will occur in various neighborhoods across Djibouti City, starting with Douda and Ambouli.
The pilot study aims to observe how these genetically engineered mosquitoes interact within urban environments, including their movement patterns, lifespan, and mating behavior with local female mosquitoes.
“These insights will inform larger-scale efforts to control populations of Anopheles stephensi, ultimately aiming to reduce the incidence of malaria in Djibouti.”
Djibouti’s malaria fight faces a setback due to the invasive Anopheles stephensi mosquito
Once on the brink of elimination (27 cases in 2012), malaria cases surged to 73,000 in 2020.
“This resurgence is primarily attributed to the Anopheles stephensi mosquito, which thrives in urban areas and is resistant to traditional control methods. Originating in Djibouti, this mosquito has spread to several African countries, threatening over 100 million people,” the report further stated.
Health Advisor to the President of Djibouti, Colonel Dr. Abdoulilah Ahmed Abdi emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The Anopheles stephensi mosquito is derailing the fight against malaria across Djibouti and the region. Innovative tools are needed, and Djibouti is proud to be driving the development of a new generation of sustainable solutions to protect communities.”
Oxitec’s Friendly mosquitoes offer a promising solution
These genetically engineered mosquitoes are designed to reduce Anopheles stephensi populations without harming local ecosystems. Their effectiveness has been demonstrated in previous dengue control efforts, suggesting they could significantly impact malaria transmission.
Following extensive community engagement and regulatory approval, Djibouti has launched the mosquito release program.
Over two years, workshops and public meetings have ensured local input into the project design, addressing community concerns and leveraging local knowledge.