Evaluation of an insecticide-treated nets eCoupon programme

The Issue

Ghana delivered over 12 million Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN) to households through its universal coverage campaign by end 2012 and went on to adopt a continuous distribution approach to sustain high levels of LLIN coverage. However, sales through the private sector channel were limited. The PMI NetWorks project designed and implemented an eCoupon Pilot Programme through the private sector in Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern Region of Ghana to inform approaches for private sector involvement. The eCoupon pilot had multiple aims: to create an eCoupon platform with the capacity to manage LLIN subsidies of differing levels, from multiple donors, to a variety of target populations; to create demand for subsidized LLINs in Koforidua and in selected workplaces; and to demonstrate a cost effective public-private-partnership. PMI NetWorks commissioned Tropical Health to conduct a process evaluation of the programme.

Our Approach

The assessment employed three data collection methods – a review of key programme documents; an analysis of computerized transactions for eCoupon issue and redemption; and interviews with those participating in the programme about their experiences. Tropical Health deployed an international private sector specialist and a Ghanaian researcher to carry out the evaluation.

Our Findings

The assessment found that the pilot was successful in reaching different population segments (Koforidua residents, school children and employees); delivering varied levels of subsidy to these different segments; and utilizing a mix of subsidies from different donors, including employer contributions. Net sales were limited primarily due to the short duration of the pilot. A 56% redemption rate was achieved. Recommendations for adjusting the programme to achieve scale-up were made, and findings were shared with the National Malaria Control Programme and Ministry of Health, donors, and stakeholders. Recommendations from the report were used by the client to later secure over 3m GBP from from the UK Department for International Development for a follow-on to the eCoupon pilot.