Malaria nets turned fishing gear threaten African fish stocks and waterways

Since 2004, the Gates Foundation has helped distribute three billion insecticide-treated mosquito nets worldwide, primarily to sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to a major decline in malaria cases. In many fishing-dependent communities, the fine mesh of these nets is being reused as makeshift fishing gear, often sewn together or dragged through shallow waters to capture small fish, larvae and eggs. This practice threatens fish stocks by removing juveniles before they can reproduce and can also disturb spawning habitats.

Moreover, the insecticidal coating on the nets may leach toxic chemicals into aquatic ecosystems, a concern noted by the World Health Organisation. While the nets have dramatically improved public health, organizations such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Collective in Support of Fishworkers urge the provision of affordable fishing equipment, improved food security, and proper net collection to mitigate ecological damage.