The other day, when I was accompanying the community HIT (Household Inspection Team), I came across a new use for mosquito nets – protecting chickens from hawks. I’m just not sure how the chickens get into this coop – or access food.
There’s no litter in Hamarland. Absolutely everything is used, over and over again. Clothing for females is limited to goat skin aprons and skirts that are difficult to clean. This young girl is exceptional; she was able to snatch enough of a net to wind around her waist. (The women repeatedly ask us to provide washable clothing. Tough assignment, we want them to be able to wash their clothes but their current style of dress is intrinsic to Hamar culture. But, that’s a story for another day. . .) Oftentimes, I see men wearing mosquito nets as clothing.
Malaria is wide-spread in our area. Over 43% have recurrent malaria. There have been several mosquito net distribution programs during the past few years. The problem is complex, however. In an area of scarce resources, whatever is available is used for the need at hand.
There is no saving or planning for the future. Eating and trying to stay warm today takes precedence over everything. And since mosquitoes are not around during prolonged drought but hawks are, this family decided to protect their chickens.
P.S. GTLI chicken coops are on the ground – covered with wire mesh! We don’t advocate using mosquito nets!
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