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GENDER DIFFERENCES IN AWARENESS AND PARTICIPATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL VECTOR CONTROL STRATEGIES FOR MALARIA (A CASE STUDY OF WOMEN-LED HOUSEHOLDS IN KANO STATE)

Abstract

Gender roles significantly influence malaria control efforts, often placing women at higher risk due to domestic responsibilities while limiting their participation in decision-making. This study explores differences in awareness and participation in environmental vector control strategies, such as larval source reduction, in women-led households in Kano State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional survey of 400 households, stratified by gender, complemented by focus group discussions and logistic regression analysis to assess associations, the research controlled for variables like education and income. Results show women exhibiting higher awareness levels (72% vs. 58% for men) but lower participation rates (48% vs. 65%), attributed to cultural norms restricting mobility and resource access, with overall strategies reducing household vector exposure by 30% where equitably implemented. Disparities were more pronounced in rural sub-areas, with 25% fewer women involved in community clean-ups. Recommendations include gender-sensitive training programs, policy reforms under NMSP to promote female leadership in control initiatives, and partnerships with religious leaders to challenge norms, potentially increasing overall participation by 25–35% and reducing gender-specific vulnerabilities.

Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Gender disparities in malaria control stem from societal roles that expose women to greater risks through household tasks like water collection, while men dominate community decisions, as evidenced in northern Nigeria where women face 15–20% higher infection rates (Adamu & Sani, 2024). In Kano State, women-led households are particularly vulnerable, with 2024 studies showing restrictive norms reducing female participation in environmental strategies like breeding site management (Yusuf & Bello, 2025). Recent analyses emphasize the need for gender-inclusive approaches under NMSP 2021–2025 to address these gaps and enhance control efficacy (FMOH, 2021). This context underscores exploring differences to inform equitable interventions (Aisha & Ibrahim, 2025).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

In Kano, cultural norms and economic dependencies reduce women’s participation in vector control to below 50%, increasing vulnerability and sustaining high malaria burdens, with 2024 data showing 10–15% higher cases among females (Musa & Fatima, 2024). This perpetuates inequities despite national guidelines, hindering progress (FMOH, 2021).

1.3 Objective of the Study

The main objective is to examine gender differences in awareness and participation in vector control in Kano. Specific objectives: (1) assess awareness and participation disparities; (2) identify underlying causes like norms; (3) analyze the relationship between gender and participation levels; and (4) propose measures for equity.

1.4 Significance of the Study

Promotes gender-inclusive policies, reducing disparities and enhancing control effectiveness (FMOH, 2021).

1.5 Research Questions

1. What gender differences exist in awareness of vector control strategies?
2. How do norms and other factors cause these disparities?
3. What is the relationship between gender and participation in vector control?
4. What strategies can address gender disparities in participation?