SC Johnson has launched high-speed manufacturing lines at its Nairobi plant to produce SC Johnson Guardian™, a spatial repellent designed to reduce mosquito populations. The company, known for brands like OFF!®, Fuyí®, and Raid®, aims to help fight malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases while creating local jobs.
With malaria season approaching in Africa, Guardian™ offers a simple and effective solution. The product can be hung in semi-enclosed spaces like homes and schools, protecting against malaria, dengue, and leishmaniasis.
“Eleven years ago, we envisioned an affordable, long-lasting spatial repellent to reduce malaria transmission,” said Fisk Johnson, Chairman and CEO of SC Johnson. “We are now close to receiving a policy recommendation from the World Health Organization. With our new high-speed manufacturing in Kenya, we can soon reach millions of people in need.”
At full capacity, the Nairobi plant will produce up to 20 million units of Guardian™ annually. SC Johnson plans to distribute the repellents for free through public health programs. The new manufacturing lines will also create around 150 jobs, boosting the local economy.
Africa bears the highest malaria burden, with 94% of cases and 95% of deaths, according to the latest World Malaria Report by the WHO. SC Johnson is awaiting WHO approval for its spatial repellents and is already planning to expand production and distribution in Kenya. Clinical trials show that spatial repellents can reduce disease risk by 33%, and Guardian™ provides protection for up to 12 months. Trials in Indonesia, Peru, and Kenya have delivered promising results, with ongoing research confirming their effectiveness.
Dr. Eric Ochomo, Deputy Director at the Kenya Medical Research Institute in Busia, emphasized the impact of local production. “Manufacturing spatial repellents in Kenya is a game changer,” he said. “Our partnership with SC Johnson allows us to distribute these tools quickly and at no cost to high-risk areas. This could prevent outbreaks and save lives.”
Over the past decade, SC Johnson has invested over $100 million in developing, testing, and deploying spatial repellents. The Nairobi plant alone has received $22 million in funding.
This initiative reflects SC Johnson’s commitment to using its resources and expertise to combat mosquito-borne diseases. By investing in innovative solutions, the company is helping to protect vulnerable communities and reduce the spread of deadly infections.
