Abstract: Malaria remains a major public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it continues to contribute substantially to morbidity and mortality. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are among the most effective malaria prevention interventions; however, their utilization remains suboptimal in many high-risk settings. This study assessed the factors influencing the utilization of LLINs for malaria prevention among households in Gasabo District, Rwanda. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to 342 households selected from rural and peri-urban sectors. Data were analyzed using STATA 17.0 through descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, and multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with LLIN utilization. The study was guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Social Ecological Model (SEM) to examine the influence of individual, household, and community-level factors on LLIN adoption and utilization. The findings revealed that the prevalence of LLIN utilization among households in Gasabo District was 55.8%. Awareness of LLINs was significantly associated with increased utilization (AOR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.08–11.34, p = 0.037). Similarly, respondents who correctly identified mosquito bites as the mode of malaria transmission were significantly more likely to use LLINs appropriately (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.19–6.13, p < 0.001). Conversely, sleeping on foam mattresses (AOR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.39–0.98, p = 0.040) and residing in houses with concrete walls (AOR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.38–0.98, p = 0.035) were negatively associated with LLIN utilization. The findings indicate that although LLIN ownership is widespread, utilization remains inadequate and is influenced by both behavioral and structural factors. Strengthening community awareness, improving malaria education, and implementing context-specific interventions that address household environmental conditions could enhance LLIN utilization and contribute to reducing the malaria burden in Rwanda.
Keywords: Utilization, Insecticidal Nets, Malaria Prevention, Households, Gasabo District.
Title: Factors Contributing to the Utilization of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets in Malaria Prevention among Households in Gasabo District, Rwanda
Author: Agnes Nganyira, Dr Maurice B. Silali, Dr. Habimana Amos
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 476-488
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 13-July-2026
