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University of Denver

Publication Date

Fall 2009

Program Name

Kenya: Islam and Swahili Cultural Identity

Abstract

his study examines how organizations work locally to distribute malaria aid and education for malaria prevention. Additionally, it analyzes the effectiveness this aid has in improving malaria preventative techniques used by the people of Lamu District. This effectiveness was compared in the contexts of several regions of the district to further understand differences in rural and urban settings. Information was gathered using a variety of interviews with organizations and prominent community leaders to gauge their ideas on malaria in Lamu and strategies used to prevent it, and informal field interviews to observe different communities’ perspectives on malaria and also their perception of the aid efforts by organizations. The results of the study suggest that while malaria preventative measures are gaining popularity in Lamu District and malaria prevalence has decreased, effective prevention measures are still not used by many in the district. It also shows a troubling reality that barriers to malaria prevention in Lamu District extend to greater levels than just community acceptance. The funding structure for local organizations also limits the community’s ability to combat urgent issues such as malaria.

Disciplines

Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Public Health Education and Promotion

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