Tanzania Health Research Bulletin (2006), Vol. 8, No. 3
Addressing the malaria-agriculture linkages requires a broad inter-disciplinary and integrated approach that
involves farming communities and key public sectors. In this paper, we report results of participatory involvement of
farming communities in determining malaria control strategies in Mvomero District, Tanzania. A seminar involving local
government leaders, health and agricultural officials comprising of a total of 27 participants was held. Public meetings in
villages of Komtonga, Mbogo, Mkindo, Dihombo and Luhindo followed this. Findings from a research on the impact of
agricultural practices on malaria burden in the district were shared with local communities, public sector officials and
other key stakeholders as a basis for a participatory discussion. The community and key stakeholders had an opportunity
to critically examine the linkages between agricultural practices and malaria in their villages and to identify problems
and propose practical solutions. Several factors were identified as bottlenecks in the implementation of malaria control in
the area. Lack of community participation and decision making in malaria interventions was expressed as among the
major constraints. This denied the community the opportunities of determining their health priorities and accessing
knowledge needed to effectively implement malaria interventions. In conclusion, this paper emphasizes the importance
of participatory approach that involves community and other key stakeholders in malaria control using an ecosystem
approach. An interdisciplinary and integrated approach is needed to involve farmers and more than one sector in malaria
control effort.