5 mosquito-repelling methods indigenous to African communities

Mosquitoes are a major public health concern in most parts of Africa, with diseases such as malaria remaining a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.

Blending traditional knowledge with modern technology has proven most effective in African communities, including in Kenya. 

Whether it is burning local herbs, improving house design, or using insecticide-treated nets, these strategies reflect innovation of African people in protecting their health. 

With continued investment and community engagement, Africa can hope to swat away the menace of mosquitoes, one practice at a time.

The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that malaria alone affects millions, underscoring the urgency of effective protection methods. 

Communities facing varied environmental and economic conditions, have developed a range of strategies, from age-old traditions to incorporating modern ones.

READ ALSO: Up to 190,000 could die in Africa if virus containment fails: WHO

With continued investment and community engagement, Africa can hope to swat away the menace of mosquitoes, one practice at a time.

READ ALSO: Fighting mosquito-borne diseases... with mosquitoes

Most African communities have long relied on indigenous plants with insect-repelling properties to safeguard from mosquitoes.

Species like lantana camara, eucalyptus, neem (Mwarubaini), and lemongrass (Tangawizi Nyasi) are grown around homes or burned at dusk to repel mosquitoes.

These traditional practices involved burning dried leaves or wood from the plants they believed had strong properties in them.

In the Western part of the country, communities like the Luo traditionally hang fresh neem branches inside houses or crush the leaves into a paste to apply on the skin. 

Similarly, the Maasai use Olkinyei, an indigenous plant, to smoke in cattle kraals at night to deter mosquitoes.

READ ALSO: Can Mosquitoes Transmit Novel Coronavirus? What You Need To Know

Older homes in some Kenyan rural areas, like the Maasai and Samburu are built with mosquito deterrence in mind.

They use thick mud walls, small windows, and elevated sleeping platforms to help reduce mosquito entry. In some coastal Swahili homes, rooms were coated with lime, which repels insects.

Today, modifications include installing small wire mesh on windows, sealing eaves, and improving roofing materials to prevent mosquito entry. 

Programs such as Nyumba Bora in Kilifi County promote the use of mosquito-proof housing upgrades, especially in areas with high malaria transmission rates.

READ ALSO: 3 unbelievable reasons mosquitoes are more attracted to you than others

Many African communities still rely on natural repellents derived from local flora. Oils and juices from eucalyptus, neem, and garlic are applied to the skin to deter mosquitoes. 

This practice, detailed in Afriklens - How Mosquitoes Influence Africa’s Wildlife and People, is favoured for its affordability and natural properties. 

In Ethiopia, for example, people crush leaves like allium sativum by applying the juice directly or mixing it with water for a spray. 

This method is particularly valued in areas where synthetic options are less available, offering a sustainable alternative.

READ ALSO: Why Experts Say There's No Chance You'll Get COVID-19 From Mosquitoes

This age-old practice of burning cow dung or charcoal continues,as it is still believed to work. While unpleasant to outsiders, this slow, smoky burn helps keep mosquitoes at bay throughout the night.

In pastoralist communities like the Samburu and Turkana, cow dung fires also serve to keep livestock warm and safe from biting insects. 

Though less popular in urban areas today due to smoke concerns, this method is still commonly used in the countryside.

For safety and health concerns, it is encouraged to use safer indoor ventilation when using this method, especially in poorly ventilated homes to reduce the risk of respiratory issues.

READ ALSO: These Mosquito Bite Pictures Can Help You Identify Your Bug Bite

Preventing mosquitoes from breeding is a critical community-driven approach. Most communities often engage in collective efforts to remove standing water from containers and ditches.

They may also cover water storage containers or use larvicides in water bodies not used for drinking. 

In some areas, mosquito-eating fish are introduced into ponds, a method used widely even today in areas where floods are prone.

These efforts often require cooperation and are supported by local health authorities, to reflect a community-wide commitment to reducing mosquito populations.

READ ALSO: Bacteria-infected Brazilian mosquitoes pack a punch in dengue fight