Channel selection guidance
Population growth, reduced resources, higher commodity costs associated with the ITNs needed to address pyrethroid resistance and variable durability, such that the median ITN retention time does not necessarily span the expected three years between campaigns, are requiring national malaria programmes (NMPs) to make difficult prioritization decisions. To maximize malaria protection for populations, NMPs are having to choose between type and quantity of ITNs, target areas and deployment channels based on context and operational feasibility, availability of ITNs and operational resources to deliver them.
With the objective of optimal distribution of ITNs to populations who need them, guidance has been developed for NMPs and partners to:
- Assess existing ITN distribution channel capacity, effectiveness and efficiency in reaching and maintaining equitable access in the targeted populations.
- Understand strengths and limitations of each ITN channel and distribution strategy.
- Determine the optimal ITN distribution channel mix based on data and local context.
Channel selection assessment tool
The ITN channel assessment toolkit helps NMPs and their partners determine the optimal ITN channel mix for populations who need ITNs. It accompanies AMP’s channel selection guidance and provides a structured five-step process for analysing population needs, identifying feasible channels and confirming operational readiness.
By completing the toolkit steps, users will fill and complete an ITN strategy matrix summarizing population groups, their ITN access targets and a channel mix for each group. Strategy design decisions and key implementation considerations can be recorded in the matrix and/or with accompanying documentation.
Although the toolkit is presented in a linear format, channel decision-making and strategy design is non-linear. Users may need to consider multiple approaches simultaneously, weighing advantages, challenges and trade-offs to reach the best-suited channel mix. Users are recommended to read the accompanying guidance and familiarize themselves with the full content of this toolkit before working through the toolkit steps.
Download the full toolkit in EN | FR | PT
Download the adaptable tools (zip-file) in EN | FR | PT
Identify population groups which need ITNs based on malaria risk and burden, per sub-national tailoring outputs and/or their characteristics or geography and set ITN access targets for each group.
The assessment and selection of distribution channels in the subsequent steps will respond to the population groups and access targets defined in this step.
Download Step 1 in EN | FR | PT
Adaptable tool: Strategy matrix template
Identify the channels that meet the basic operational requirements for each population group; dismiss channel options that are not currently feasible. For each channel, users should source and record key indicator values as part of a situation analysis prior to answering the questions on minimal requirements.
Channels considered are distribution through routine health services, mass campaign, school-based distribution, community-based distribution, commercial sector.
Download Step 2
Determine past performance (where relevant) and operational readiness of feasible delivery channels identified in Step 2 and identify/prioritize operational gaps. Readiness is determined against a set of questions for seven operational areas: leadership, coordination and financing; integration opportunities; logistics; training; supervision; social and behaviour change; routine reporting and data management.
In completing this step, users will understand how selected channels would be implemented, as a prerequisite to developing plans of action.
Download Step 3 in EN | FR | PT
Adaptable tool: Step 3 operational readiness table (Excel) EN | FR | PT
Estimate the total ITN needs required to achieve the targets for each population group. Explore how the set of operationally-ready delivery channels from Step 3 can be combined for each population group to best meet ITN needs, considering channel costs and available financing for ITN distribution.
Download Step 4 in EN | FR | PT
Channel assessment findings are validated, and the final set of channel mixes are endorsed. The rationale for channel choice is documented. A master workplan for channel implementation is developed and priority actions identified to resolve known gaps. Assign responsibilities for developing a plan of action for each selected channel.
Download Step 5 in EN | FR | PT