Table 4 Type and use of malaria risk map included in the most recent National Malaria Strategic Plan by country

Kenya: NMSP 2019–2023

 Modelled PfPR map (geostatistical modelling)

Multiple surveys and studies combined with environmental data

Second- level administrative division (sub-counties)

To show the epidemiological stratification: endemic areas (lake and coast), seasonal malaria transmission areas, malaria epidemic prone areas (western highlands of Kenya) and low risk malaria areas

Maps were used to identify epidemic and epidemic-prone areas where LLINs were to be delivered by mass distribution and routine channels at ANC; to identify zones where to implement IRS (lake endemic areas) and IPTp (lake and coastal endemic regions); and to identify zones where installing buffer stocks of case management commodities and IRS (epidemic prone areas) was appropriate

Malawi: NMSP 2017–2022

 Descriptive incidence map (cases per 1000 population)

Routine HIMS 2011–2015

Second-level administrative division level (Districts)

To show variation in incidence across districts and decline in incidence from 2011 to 2015

Maps were used to identify highly endemic districts where to implement IRS interventions

DRC: NMSP 2016-2020

 Descriptive PfPR map

DHS survey 2013–2014

First-level administrative division (by the 26 new provinces created in late 2015)

To show the malaria pre-elimination, control-consolidation and control intensification areas

A maps was used to identify areas where LLINs were to be additionally distributed through schools (areas with prevalence > 30%, also defined as tropical regions) and areas where to implement IRS (in pre-elimination and urban areas in North Kivu and Kinshasa)