Urbano Shetunyenga has introduced Omwe, a cost-effective insecticide paper designed to combat malaria-carrying mosquitoes in Namibia. This innovative product is registered with the Ministry of Agriculture and provides up to seven hours of mosquito protection. The launch is timely amidst a rising malaria outbreak, and Shetunyenga aims to make Omwe accessible to low-income communities while planning future expansions into other regions.
In response to the escalating malaria outbreak in Namibia, local entrepreneur Urbano Shetunyenga has launched Omwe, an innovative insecticide paper. This cost-effective solution is intended to combat malaria-carrying mosquitoes. Shetunyenga, the managing director of Omwe Insecticides Investments CC, recognized a clear market gap for affordable mosquito control methods while pursuing his studies in London in 2017.
The product, named after the Oshiwambo word for mosquitoes, received registration from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform in 2022. It contains transfluthrin, an active ingredient recognized by the World Health Organisation, which acts on mosquitoes within five minutes and offers up to seven hours of protection in a 10-square-metre area. Unlike conventional methods, Omwe operates without electricity, specialized personnel, or costly equipment; users merely ignite the paper, extinguish the flame, and allow the smoke to repel mosquitoes.
Shetunyenga emphasizes the safety of Omwe, stating it serves as a safer alternative to mosquito coils by avoiding allergic reactions and containing Bitrex, a bittering agent to deter accidental ingestion by children. Furthermore, he highlights that Omwe complements existing malaria control methods, such as long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor spraying, providing an extra layer of defense.
The launch of Omwe is timely, as the Ministry of Health and Social Services has reported an uptick in malaria cases, particularly in northern regions due to conducive breeding conditions stemming from heavy rains and stagnant water. Health officials have urged the public to undertake enhanced malaria preventive measures, including using insecticides, sleeping under treated nets, and removing standing water.
In light of the urgent need, Shetunyenga is committed to making Omwe accessible to low-income communities through collaborations with public institutions like the Office of the Prime Minister and NGOs for subsidized distribution. He acknowledges challenges in market entry, such as the lengthy registration process and consumer education.
Shetunyenga aims to expand Omwe’s availability to pharmacies, retail locations, and through institutional partnerships, thereby improving public access. He expresses his dedication, stating, “My priority is helping Namibia fight malaria.” He has plans to consider expansion into other malaria-affected regions once a significant impact is achieved domestically.
Ben Nangombe, executive director of the Health Ministry, has indicated that the surge in malaria cases can be attributed to infections from individuals entering Namibia from neighboring countries, particularly Angola. By January 19, about 3,000 cases were recorded, which accounted for 58% of total cases, while the remaining originated from abroad.
Nangombe reported a total of 5,898 malaria cases, which included 840 hospital admissions and 28 fatalities between December 2024 and January 19. He has urged citizens to cooperate with healthcare teams in conducting residual spraying in residences to decrease mosquito populations and advised patients to seek medical attention promptly upon experiencing malaria symptoms, warning that delayed treatment could lead to severe consequences.
Urbano Shetunyenga’s introduction of the Omwe insecticide paper presents a promising approach to combating malaria in Namibia, enhancing accessibility and safety for users. With the Ministry of Health reporting rising malaria cases, especially in northern regions, the timing of Omwe’s launch is crucial. Shetunyenga’s commitment to public health and collaborative efforts with institutions aim to empower communities and improve malaria prevention outcomes. Furthermore, as the focus remains on addressing local concerns, there exists potential for future expansion to other affected areas.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
