Implementing Organisation:
Samaritans Alliance for Health and Development Foundation (DASH Foundation)
Location:
Pager Division, Kitgum Municipality, Kitgum District, Uganda
Project Duration:
2024 – 2027
Target Group:
Children under five years of age, expectant mothers, adolescents, youth and vulnerable households
Target Reach:
1,000 children under five by the end of 2027
Background
Malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness and death among children under five years of age in Kitgum District. Limited access to early diagnosis, prevention tools and health information increases the risk of severe malaria, complications and child mortality. Maternal health, HIV prevalence and community health-seeking behaviour also directly affect child survival.
The CASCADED Under Five Free Malaria Programme was developed to address these challenges through an integrated, community based and health facility-supported approach.
Overall Goal
To reduce malaria related illness and mortality among infants and children under five years of age, while strengthening community health systems and improving maternal and child wellbeing by 2027.
Specific Objectives
To prevent malaria infections among children under five and expectant mothers
To promote early diagnosis and timely treatment of malaria
To strengthen HIV prevention and maternal health services
To improve community awareness and positive health behaviours
To increase access to basic health services through community outreach
Key Projects and Activities
Under the CASCADED Programme, DASH Foundation implements the following integrated activities:
HIV Testing and Counselling for adolescents, youth, expectant mothers and the general public to support maternal and child health outcomes.
Condom Distribution for male and female youth to reduce HIV transmission and unplanned pregnancies.
Community Outreach through Village Health Teams (VHTs) to promote malaria prevention, early treatment and referrals.
Under Five Malaria Prevention and Early Treatment Services delivered through the Health Centre III and community referrals.
Health Education for Mothers and Caregivers on malaria prevention, nutrition, hygiene and child care.
Behaviour Change Communication and Awareness Campaigns using culturally appropriate materials.
Referral and Follow-Up Services for vulnerable children and families requiring higher-level care.
Distribution and Promotion of Malaria Prevention Tools, including correct use of mosquito nets.
Monitoring, Data Collection and Programme Learning to track progress and improve service delivery.
Expected Results
Reduced malaria cases and deaths among children under five
Increased early health-seeking behaviour for fever and malaria symptoms
Improved maternal health and HIV prevention outcomes
Increased community knowledge on malaria prevention and child care
Strengthened linkages between communities and health facilities
Implementation Capacity
DASH Foundation is a registered Community Based Organisation with a licensed Health Centre III, qualified staff, strong community networks and an active Board of Directors. The organisation works closely with local authorities, health officials and Village Health Teams to ensure effective and accountable implementation.
Contact Information
Samaritans Alliance for Health and Development Foundation (DASH)
Pager Division, Kitgum Municipality, Kitgum District
Telephone: 0787589560 / 0752912716
Email: dashfoundation33@gmail.com