Abstract:
Gene drives are being used to enhance a DNA sequence’s likelihood of passing between generations via sexual
reproduction. Gene drives can manipulate natural populations. They can be used to suppress populations
by reducing the number of individuals in a population. Some of the more than 3 000 mosquito species in the
world are vectors of diseases. Malaria is a typical disease whose vectors are mosquitoes. It affects mostly
tropical countries. It kills many people annually many of whom are children. Interventions currently in use
such as indoor residual spraying and mosquito nets are insufficient. Gene drives can be used in different
ways to control mosquito populations or to eliminate mosquito species thereby reducing malaria cases and
deaths. This can be through population replacement or suppression. However, before the elimination of any
mosquito species for malaria control it is necessary to consider the effects of such an action. Additionally,
there is a need to review the options available for the control of mosquitoes and to create awareness on the
benefits and risks of such an action. This paper, therefore, looks at the role of mosquitoes in the environment,
methods of controlling mosquitoes and malaria and necessary considerations when using gene drives inter
alia
