Research approach and methodologies

The project followed an ecohealth approach, emphasising transdisciplinarity, systems approach, community participation, gender equity, sustainability and knowledge to action. It applied both qualitative and quantitative methodologies as indicated below;

• Workshops and group discussions to learn from and with community members

• Interviews with key informants (e.g. policy makers, traditional leaders and health personnel)

• Observations and case studies

• Participatory Rural Appraisals (PRA)

• Lab and field studies of vector viability under different conditions

• Determining vector variations across different climatic zones by using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing

• Modelling future impact scenarios and feeding results into National Adaptation Plans

To determine the temporal trends of the burden of malaria and schistosomiasis

To determine community perceptions of the influence of climate change on VBDs with special focus on malaria and schistosomiasis

To establish the influence of socio-economic, environmental, climatic and institutional factors on the transmission dynamics of malaria and schistosomiasis

To explore and define stakeholder-driven adaptation strategies to reduce population health vulnerabilities due to malaria and schistosomiasis

To develop and strengthen capacities among research groups and communities to enable them to assess and mitigate population health vulnerabilities related to malaria and schistosomiasis