Publications

Research outputs, reports, policy briefs and knowledge products from KIU scholars and partners.

2026 Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES (NIJSES)

Role of Stagnant Water, Irrigation Schemes, and Wetlands in Malaria Proliferation

Nalongo Bina K.

Malaria remains a significant public health threat, particularly in regions with environmental conditions conducive to the proliferation of the Anopheles mosquito, the primary vector of the disease. Stagnant water, irrigation systems, and wetlands play crucial roles in the transmission and persistence of malaria by providing ideal breeding habitats for mosquitoes. This review explores the relationship between these environmental factors and malaria proliferation, focusing on how stagnant water bodies, irrigation practices, and wetland ecosystems contribute to the lifecycle of Anopheles mosquitoes. Stagnant water pools, found in ditches, ponds, and artificial water bodies, create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation infrastructure. Irrigation systems, essential for agricultural development, can inadvertently increase the availability of breeding sites by creating standing water. Similarly, wetlands, while ecologically important, often harbor waterlogged areas that facilitate mosquito breeding. The study highlights the need for effective management strategies to reduce the impact of these environments on malaria transmission. These strategies should integrate malaria control measures with agricultural and ecological sustainability, offering a holistic approach to mitigating malaria risks while preserving vital ecosystems.