Malaria Knowledge and Preventive Behaviour Among Nomadic Fulani Herders in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria

Nomadic communities present unique challenges for malaria prevention programmes due to their mobility, limited healthcare access, and cultural practices that may affect uptake of conventional preventive interventions such as insecticide-treated nets and health facility attendance. This study assesses malaria knowledge and preventive behaviour among nomadic Fulani herders in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted, recruiting 260 adult herders from seasonal camps in Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, and Suru Local Government Areas during the wet season using purposive sampling. A Hausa-language structured questionnaire assessed knowledge of malaria causation, recognition of symptoms, treatment-seeking habits, and bednet and repellent use. Sociodemographic variables including herd size, migration frequency, and access to community health workers were recorded. Literature from 2021 to 2024 highlights severe under-coverage of malaria prevention services among nomadic populations in Northwest Nigeria, with bednet ownership estimated at below 20 percent in some pastoral communities. This study generates evidence on knowledge deficits and behavioural determinants that compromise prevention uptake in this hard-to-reach group. Findings will support the development of mobile health outreach strategies for nomadic communities in Kebbi State and will be shared with the State Malaria Elimination Programme. Keywords: malaria knowledge, preventive behaviour, nomadic Fulani, Kebbi State, pastoral communities.