Freetown, 26th June, 2026 – Sierra Leone is set to benefit from a partnership between the U.S. Department of State, SC Johnson, and The Global Fund, which will deploy Guardian, an innovative American-developed malaria prevention tool, to vulnerable communities.
The Guardian spatial repellent is a simple, long-lasting indoor device that continuously releases mosquito repellent into the air, creating a protective barrier for up to 12 months. Designed to work without electricity, the device complements existing malaria prevention measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor spraying.
Implementation of the project is expected to begin in September 2026, with initial rollout in Bonthe Island and Tonkolili District. Officials say the device will provide an additional layer of protection against mosquito bites, helping to reduce malaria transmission and safeguard households, schools, and public spaces.
Malaria remains one of Sierra Leone’s most pressing public health challenges, with thousands of cases reported annually. By introducing Guardian, the partnership aims to strengthen community resilience and accelerate progress toward reducing infection rates.
The innovation could be a game-changer, offering affordable, sustainable protection for families in rural and urban areas alike. The initiative underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling global health threats and highlights Sierra Leone’s inclusion among six countries selected to pilot the program.
