Evaluation of Performance Indicators for Malaria Control in Kinshasa from 2020 to 2023, the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In 2018, malaria remained a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, accounting for 44% of all outpatient visits and 22% of deaths. This led to the development of the strategic plan for 2020-2023. To meet the objectives of this renewed plan, a monitoring and evaluation program focusing on performance indicators was established. This study aimed to assess the malaria control performance indicators in Kinshasa. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study used the National Malaria Control Program dataset of the period 2020-2023 to analyze malaria data from 23 HZ (Health Zone) in Kinshasa. Diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive use of LLINs (long-lasting insecticidal nets) and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamin-based IPT (intermittent preventive treatment among pregnant women) indicators were evaluated following the targeted thresholds established in the strategic plan for 2020-2023. RESULTS: Malaria was present in all studied HZ from 2020 to 2023, with a heterogeneous distribution. The malaria incidence during the study period was 30%, with an upward trend in both suspected and confirmed cases, peaking in 2022 and showing no further fluctuations thereafter. The proportion of LLINs distributed to pregnant women during antenatal care visits was 62%, 61%, 45%, and 88% in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively. A total of 83.1% of suspected malaria cases were diagnosed using RDT (Rapid Diagnosis Test), and confirmed malaria cases received antimalarial treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The objectives of the 2020-2023 strategic plan were only partially achieved, and no HZ reached 100% diagnosis by RDT, with only four HZs reaching at least 95% of the target. Thirty-four HZs were able to benefit from 95% treatment with antimalarial drugs.