The Pest Control Association of Nigeria (PECAN) says stringent regulatory frameworks are needed to ensure safety and efficacy of private sector interventions in mosquito control strategies in the country.
Pest Control Officer Olakunle Williams, the National President of the association, said such framework would prevent unintended environmental consequences and health risks.
Williams said this in his presentation Titled: Prospects and Challenges in Private Sector Driven Mosquito Control Interventions in Public Health” at a symposium on Tuesday in Abuja in commemoration of the “World Mosquito Day.”
The theme for 2023 is ”Fighting the world’s Deadliest Killer’-The Mosquito.”
He said mosquito-borne diseases continued to pose significant threats to public health globally.
Williams explained that private sector’s involvement in mosquito control interventions had gained attention due to its potential to bring innovation, efficiency, and resources to combat these diseases.
The president said collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors, guided by strong governance and ethical considerations, could ultimately lead to more effective and sustainable mosquito control strategies.
“Private sector-driven mosquito control interventions offer promising avenues for innovation, resource allocation, and collaboration in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases.
“However, careful navigation of challenges related to profit motives, equitable access, regulation, data privacy, community engagement, and long-term sustainability is essential.
“To ensure that private sector involvement aligns with the overarching goal of safeguarding public health,“ he said.
He said private sector practices, such as streamlined supply chains and efficient management could enhance the delivery of mosquito control measures, making interventions more effective in disease prevention.
Williams emphasised that private sector involvement may raise concerns about the sustainability of interventions, particularly “if profitability wanes or companies shift their priorities away from mosquito control.”
He further said that successful mosquito control required community participation and cooperation.
The president advised that private sector-driven interventions must prioritise transparent communication and collaboration with local communities to gain trust and support.
