Uniting Against Malaria: Gatbro International and Tigerbrands Lead the Charge
As the world observes World Malaria Day, Gatbro International, the largest FMCG distributor in the country, stands at the forefront of the fight against malaria. With the theme of this year’s global campaign being “Accelerating the Fight Against Malaria for a Healthier Future,” Gatbro has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health of Zambians by launching new initiatives aimed at raising awareness, prevention, and community support. Malaria remains one of Zambia’s most pressing public health issues. According to the Ministry of Health, Zambia records over six million malaria cases annually, with thousands of lives—particularly children under five—at risk. Despite significant progress through government and NGO interventions, malaria continues to impact productivity, education, and the economy.
The Malaria Crisis: A Call to Action
Despite decades of progress, malaria still claims over 600,000 lives annually, with children under five accounting for most fatalities. Emerging challenges—like climate change, drug resistance, and gaps in healthcare infrastructure—threaten to reverse hard-won gains. The time for coordinated, urgent, and scalable action is now—and Gatbro International, known for excellence in both FMCG distribution and health advocacy, is leading the charge.
Gatbro's Commitment to Health and Community
As a leader in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), Gatbro International reaches thousands of retailers, wholesalers, and households across urban and rural areas. With this reach comes the opportunity—and responsibility—to drive positive change. On World Malaria Day 2025, Gatbro has partnered with local health organizations and the Ministry of Health to distribute over 100,000 treated mosquito nets and malaria awareness materials across rural districts in Central, Eastern, and Southern Provinces. Through its extensive logistics and distribution network, Gatbro ensures that life-saving tools reach even the most remote communities.
Our dedication to fostering community empowerment is exemplified by innovative initiatives that promote self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship. One of our key focus areas is creating competitions and platforms that enable individuals to unlock their potential and create employment opportunities for themselves. By providing access to resources such as fully equipped trailers and braai bikes, community members can turn their ideas into tangible businesses and sustainable livelihoods
A Sustainable Approach to Health
Gatbro International is also exploring partnerships with health product manufacturers to introduce affordable and accessible anti-malarial products, such as insect repellents and home sprays, through its retail distribution channels. This approach ensures that prevention tools become part of everyday shopping routines, improving long-term access and awareness. Furthermore, the company is investing in eco-friendly mosquito net production, in line with its commitment to sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-being.
Looking Ahead: Ending Malaria for Good
World Malaria Day is not just a moment of reflection—it’s a call to action. Gatbro’s leadership in this national health fight demonstrates how the private sector can play a vital role in achieving a malaria-free Zambia. “Malaria is preventable and treatable,” added Mwale. “We believe that with the right partnerships and continued effort, we can create a future where no Zambian child dies from a mosquito bite.” As Zambia continues its journey toward malaria elimination by 2030, companies like Gatbro are proving that business success and community health go hand in hand. This World Malaria Day, Gatbro proudly stands united against malaria—for families, for progress, and for a healthier nation.