Yaoundé, 17th September 2025 — The Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID) and the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement the CANVeCT project in Cameroon.
Dr Zeh Meka and Professor Charles Wondji
Funded by Unitaid, the Catalyzing the Adoption of a Novel Vector Control Toolbox (CANVeCT) project aims to strengthen the existing WHO recommendation for Spatial Repellents (SR) in combination with Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). It also seeks to establish the evidence base for SRs as a standalone tool. Spatial repellents are innovative tools that slowly release chemicals into the air. Led by Professor Charles Wondji, the Principal Investigator (PI), CANVeCT is built on the premise that preventing mosquito entry, attraction, and feeding can significantly reduce malaria transmission.
The strategic partnership between CRID and NMCP outlines the roles and responsibilities of both institutions in executing the project, ensuring alignment with national malaria priorities and compliance with international standards, including WHO Good Clinical and Laboratory Practices (GCLP), Unitaid guidelines, and ethical protocols for human subject protection.
Under the agreement, CRID will lead technical implementation and ensure NMCP is actively involved in project committees, stakeholder meetings, and dissemination activities. NMCP will support the rollout of a randomized controlled trial of spatial repellents in selected communities and a household trial in a refugee camp setting. The program will also include stakeholder mapping, community sensitization, and national-level engagement.
Signature of the memorandum of understanding
The MoU was signed by Professor Charles Wondji, Executive Director of CRID, and Dr. Zeh Meka, Permanent Secretary of NMCP. The NMCP delegation included key figures such as Dr. Messe Fouda Prosper,Head of Monitoring & Evaluation section; Dr. Medou Hortense,Head of Training department, Mrs Dohtsad Njebay Jeannette, Head of Partnerships department; Mme Ngadeu Nelly,Head of Research section; Mr. Théophile and Mrs Tamen Therese, Care Management officers; and Dr. Tabue Raymond,Head of Vector Control unit. This agreement marks a significant milestone in the fight against malaria in Cameroon, reinforcing institutional collaboration and paving the way for evidence-based, scalable interventions to protect vulnerable populations.
