African Institute for Research in Infectious Diseases
Every breakthrough in vector control starts with a simple question: will it work in the real world?
Experimental huts play a crucial role in bridging laboratory research and real-world application by enabling the evaluation of vector control tools under semi-field conditions. At AIRID, one of the largest experimental hut platforms in the world supports the assessment of malaria interventions, generating evidence that informs policy and contributes to the development of effective, life-saving public health tools across Africa.
Vidéos
From Experimental Huts to Real-World Impact: Advancing Vector Control Innovation
Every breakthrough in vector control starts with a simple question: will it work in the real world?
That’s where experimental huts come in. These unique research facilities help bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and community impact by allowing scientists to observe how mosquitoes interact with insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual sprays, spatial repellents, and other emerging interventions in settings that closely resemble real homes.
At AIRID, our network of 84 experimental huts represents one of the largest platforms globally for evaluating vector control tools against malaria mosquitoes under semi-field conditions.
The evidence generated through these studies helps us understand:
✅ Their ability to protect against insecticide-resistant mosquito populations
✅ How new vector control products perform before large-scale deployment
✅ Which innovations have the greatest potential to reduce malaria transmission
The impact of experimental hut research extends far beyond the study site. Findings from these evaluations have informed many of the vector control tools used today to protect millions of people across Africa.
At AIRID, we are proud to support the development and assessment of the next generation of malaria control innovations.
Watch the video below to see how our experimental hut station helps turn promising ideas into evidence-based public health solutions.