Namibian Innovator Introduces Omwe Solution Amidst Malaria Outbreak

Amidst a rising malaria outbreak, Namibian entrepreneur Urbano Shetunyenga has launched Omwe, an innovative insecticide paper, to combat malaria-carrying mosquitoes affordably. Registered in 2022, Omwe operates without electricity or specialized training and is designed to be safe for users. Its introduction addresses pressing malaria concerns in Namibia, emphasizing community collaboration for prevention efforts.

In response to the escalating malaria outbreak in Namibia, local entrepreneur Urbano Shetunyenga (28) has unveiled Omwe, an innovative insecticide paper designed to offer a cost-effective means of controlling malaria-carrying mosquitoes. As managing director of Omwe Insecticides Investments CC, Shetunyenga identified the urgent need for affordable mosquito control during his studies in London in 2017, leading him to form partnerships aimed at delivering innovative solutions to Namibia.

The product, named after the Oshiwambo word for mosquitoes, was registered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform in 2022. Omwe features insecticide-infused paper containing transfluthrin, an active ingredient sanctioned by the World Health Organisation, which effectively impacts mosquitoes within five minutes and provides up to seven hours of protection in a 10-square-metre area.

Omwe differentiates itself from traditional methods by not requiring electricity or specialized equipment. Users simply ignite the paper, extinguish the flame, and allow the smoke to act as a mosquito repellent. Shetunyenga states, “Omwe is a safer alternative to mosquito coils, as it does not cause allergic reactions and contains Bitrex, a bittering agent that prevents accidental ingestion by children.”

This launch occurs at a pivotal time, as the Ministry of Health and Social Services has reported rising malaria cases, especially in northern Namibia, attributed to conducive weather conditions. Health officials stress the importance of intensified malaria prevention methods, which include the usage of insecticides, treated mosquito nets, and the elimination of standing water around residential areas.

Shetunyenga is committed to making Omwe affordable for low-income communities and has sought collaborations with public institutions and non-governmental organizations to facilitate subsidized distribution. He recognizes the hurdles in establishing Omwe in the market, such as lengthy registration processes and the need for consumer education regarding proper usage.

Plans for wider accessibility include distribution through pharmacies, retail shops, and institutional partnerships. Ultimately, Shetunyenga aims to support Namibia’s malaria eradication efforts, with aspirations to expand Omwe into other malaria-stricken regions once a significant impact is achieved locally.

According to Ben Nangombe, executive director of the health ministry, an increase in malaria cases can be traced to individuals infected abroad, particularly from Angola. By January 19, Namibia reported approximately 3,000 malaria cases, with over half stemming from these imported cases. He urged the public to permit health teams to conduct residual spraying in homes and to seek medical attention promptly if malaria symptoms occur, emphasizing the critical need for early intervention.

Urbano Shetunyenga’s introduction of the Omwe insecticide paper marks a significant advancement in Namibia’s efforts to combat malaria. With its affordability and innovative approach, Omwe aims to enhance mosquito control without the need for electricity or specialized tools. As Namibia faces increasing malaria cases, the importance of community cooperation and the implementation of effective solutions, such as Omwe, are vital in the country’s fight against this pervasive disease.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na