REST‑Africa highlights the successful completion of a two-day capacity-building training for Village Health Teams and community health workers on malaria prevention, testing, referral and community health education.
On 26 and 27 August 2026, a total of 41 Village Health Team members from North Division, Fort Portal City, participated in an intensive training on malaria prevention and control. Most participants were drawn from Rubingo Ward, where the Rotary Club of Kabarole had previously distributed 500 long-lasting insecticidal nets to support vulnerable households.
The training also brought together two health workers from Rubingo Health Centre III, representatives of the Rotary Club of Kabarole and other stakeholders committed to reducing the burden of malaria in Fort Portal City.
Strengthening the frontline of community healthcare
Village Health Teams serve as an essential link between households and formal health facilities. They support health education, early identification of illness, referrals and the promotion of preventive practices within their communities.
The training was conducted to strengthen their ability to provide accurate malaria information, identify suspected cases, conduct malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests appropriately and refer patients requiring further assessment and treatment.
Using a participatory and learner-centred approach, the facilitators combined technical presentations, group discussions, practical demonstrations, case scenarios and experience-sharing sessions. This allowed participants to connect technical knowledge with the malaria-related challenges they encounter while serving households.
Key areas covered
The training addressed several critical aspects of malaria prevention and case management, including:
- The causes and transmission of malaria;
- Signs and symptoms of malaria;
- Characteristics of the female Anopheles mosquito;
- The life cycle of the malaria parasite;
- Practical diagnosis using malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests;
- Updated malaria treatment guidelines;
- Early identification and appropriate referral of suspected cases;
- Correct hanging, use, care and maintenance of long-lasting insecticidal nets;
- Community mobilization and malaria health education; and
- The roles and operational challenges of Village Health Teams.
Participants received practical guidance on conducting and interpreting malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests under the supervision of experienced trainers. They also practised the correct handling and maintenance of insecticidal nets and discussed how to communicate consistent malaria-prevention messages to households.
Building healthier and more resilient communities
The training strengthened participants’ knowledge and practical capacity to contribute to early malaria detection, timely referral, prevention and community awareness. The trained VHTs are now better positioned to encourage early testing, promote appropriate treatment-seeking behaviour and support households to use mosquito nets correctly and consistently.
The intervention complements the earlier distribution of 500 mosquito nets in Rubingo Ward by strengthening the knowledge and community systems required to ensure that the nets are properly used and maintained.
Continued refresher training, supportive supervision, mentorship and access to essential diagnostic and malaria-prevention supplies will be necessary to sustain the progress achieved.
For REST‑Africa, strong community health systems are fundamental to equitable and sustainable development. We remain committed to working with local authorities, community structures and development partners to advance people-centred health interventions that empower communities to prevent disease and improve household wellbeing.
Together, we can strengthen community action and move closer to a malaria-free Fort Portal City.