PROJECT REPORT
Project title
Designing and implementation of mosquito repellent candles using locally
available materials to reduce the spread of malaria
Name of the Project:
Development of Mosquito Repellent Candles Using Natural Ingredients
Objectives:
To independently create an effective mosquito repellent candle using natural and
locally available materials.
To reduce dependence on chemical repellents that may have side effects.
To promote safe and eco-friendly mosquito control solutions.
To improve personal innovation and practical science skills.
Purpose of the Project:
The project aimed to develop a natural mosquito repellent candle as a safer and affordable
alternative to chemical sprays and coils. It was intended to address health challenges caused
by mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and to demonstrate personal creativity and scientific
application.
Justification of the Project (With Statistics from Kawempe):
Kawempe Division, one of the most densely populated areas in Kampala, Uganda, records
among the highest malaria incidence rates in the city. According to health facility reports
from Kawempe Hospital and nearby clinics, over 40% of outpatient cases during rainy
seasons are malaria-related. Poor drainage, overcrowding, and stagnant water in slum areas
significantly increase mosquito breeding.
Many residents in Kawempe rely on mosquito coils and sprays, which may cause respiratory
problems, especially in children and people with asthma. Additionally, more than 30% of
households cannot afford consistent use of chemical repellents due to economic hardship.
This project was therefore justified as a way to:
Provide a low-cost, natural solution to prevent mosquito bites.
Promote public health, especially in areas with limited access to preventive tools.
Encourage self-reliance and innovation using locally available materials.
Activities Undertaken to Carry Out the Project:
Conducted personal research on mosquito-repelling natural oils like citronella,
eucalyptus, and lemongrass.
Collected all necessary materials including wax, essential oils, wicks, containers, and
simple tools.
Melted the wax, mixed it with selected oils, and poured it into containers with wicks.
Carried out trials in areas with high mosquito presence and observed the results.
Finalisation
Achievements:
Successfully designed and produced mosquito repellent candles
Created a natural, low-cost, and functional product that reduces mosquito activity.
Improved personal skills in research, experimentation, and problem-solving.
Gained recognition for taking initiative and completing the project in school, society
and community back home
Resources Mobilised:
Category Resources
Materials microwax, citronella oil, wicks, small containers or tins
Tools/Equipment saucepans, stirring stick, mold containers,
Human Effort self-research, design, testing, and production
Funding Source Personal savings or home
Online resources, YouTube tutorials, science textbooks for understanding
Research Inputs
candle chemistry and mosquito behavior
Challenges Faced While Carrying Out the Project:
Limited and rare access to pure essential oils and soywax.
Some early batches of candles did not burn properly or repel mosquitoes effectively.
Difficulty in balancing oil concentration for scent and effectiveness.
Limited financial aid
How the Challenges Were Handled:
Substituted unavailable raw materials with affordable natural alternatives like micro
wax
Repeated testing and adjusted formulas until results improved.
Researched wick types and improved the setup for better burning performance.
Prioritized quality over quantity due to limited materials and time.
Asked for funding from parents
Lessons and Skills Learnt While Carrying Out the Project:
Scientific research and experimentation with natural ingredients.
Practical skills in candle making and chemical handling.
Problem-solving, perseverance, and working independently.
Time management and personal responsibility.
Communication and documentation of scientific findings.
Benefits of the Project:
Health Benefits: Reduces exposure to malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.
Environmental Benefits: Uses natural ingredients that are biodegradable and non-
toxic.
Economic Benefits: Offers an affordable repellent alternative for low-income
households.
Educational Benefits: Enhances knowledge in science, innovation, and product
design.
Personal Growth: Builds independence, creativity, and confidence in handling solo
projects.
Overall Evaluation or Assessment of the Project:
The project was highly successful in achieving its goals. I was able to create an effective
mosquito repellent product entirely on my own using simple, natural materials. The candles
worked well in reducing mosquito presence and were safe to use. The experience
strengthened my self-reliance, creativity, and scientific thinking. Despite working alone, I
was able to complete all stages of the project, from idea to testing and presentation.
Recommendations Related to the Project:
The concept should be developed further with support from health or science clubs.
Awareness should be raised about natural repellents to reduce reliance on harmful
chemicals.
Future versions of the candle can include better scents and longer burning time.
Schools can encourage similar projects to build self-reliance and creativity.
The candles can be produced in larger quantities for distribution in mosquito-prone
areas like Kawempe.
Complied by
SSIMBWA SAMUEL
Kitante hill school
[Link] 7102
Kampala
12/06/25
My Dear Parents,
Re: Request for Support for My Science Project
I kindly request your approval and financial support for my project titled “Mosquito
Repellent Candles Using Natural Ingredients.” The goal is to create affordable, eco-
friendly candles that help fight mosquitoes and reduce malaria cases, especially in areas like
Kawempe.
I have already started researching and working on it alone, but I need help buying materials
like wax, wicks, and oils. Your support would mean a lot and help me finish the project
successfully.
Thank you for always supporting my education and ideas.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
Signature: ____________________
Parent’s Name: ________________
Signature: ____________________
Kitante hill school
[Link] 7102
Kampala
12/06/25
Project Supervisor,
Kitante hill school
[Link] 7102,
Kampala.
Re: Appreciation for Your Support
Dear Madam,
Thank you for your guidance and encouragement during my project, “Mosquito Repellent
Candles.” Though I worked on it independently, your feedback helped me grow and succeed.
I appreciate your support and hope to keep learning under your guidance in the future.
Sincerely,
SSIMBWA SAMUEL Supervisor’s Name: ______________
Signature: ______________________ Signature: ____________________
