By Burnett Munthali
Minister of Health Khumbidze Kandodo Chiponda is in Balaka for a series of official assignments aimed at addressing pressing health issues and improving healthcare infrastructure in the district. Her visit began with the launch of the Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) campaign at Dziwe Clinic, where she emphasized the importance of community participation in fighting cholera outbreaks.
At the OCV campaign launch, Chiponda called on parents to ensure that all children are vaccinated, stressing the critical role of the vaccine in preventing cholera. She also urged communities to reject myths and misconceptions surrounding vaccines, which often hinder public health efforts.
“Cholera remains a significant health challenge in Malawi, and vaccination is one of the most effective ways to combat this disease. I encourage everyone, especially parents, to ensure that no one is left behind in this life-saving campaign,” she said.
Her message was reinforced by the testimony of Patuma James, a 55-year-old resident of Chikumana village in Traditional Authority Nsamala. Patuma recounted how her 25-year-old son nearly died from cholera last year. “It was a traumatic experience for my family. This vaccine is a blessing, and we are all ready to get vaccinated to prevent such a tragedy from happening again,” she shared.
Following the vaccine launch, Minister Chiponda proceeded to officially open two new maternity facilities at Kwitanda and Chendausiku. These facilities aim to improve maternal and child health services in the district, addressing challenges such as long distances to healthcare centers and inadequate maternity care.
Chiponda highlighted the government’s commitment to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates by ensuring that women have access to quality healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth. She thanked development partners and community leaders for their collaboration in making these facilities operational.
The Health Minister’s itinerary also includes a visit to the construction site of Khwisa Health Centre. The new facility is expected to enhance access to healthcare for residents of Balaka and surrounding areas, particularly in underserved communities.
Chiponda expressed satisfaction with the progress of the construction, emphasizing that improving healthcare infrastructure is a top priority for the government. “We are committed to bringing healthcare services closer to the people. Facilities like Khwisa Health Centre will make a significant difference in ensuring timely and quality medical care,” she said.
Chiponda’s visit to Balaka underscores the Ministry of Health’s holistic approach to addressing health challenges in Malawi. By focusing on preventive measures such as vaccination campaigns and investing in healthcare infrastructure, the government aims to create a resilient health system that meets the needs of all citizens.
The Health Minister concluded her day by reiterating the importance of community involvement in healthcare initiatives. “Health is a shared responsibility. Together, we can build a healthier Malawi for current and future generations,” she said.
The launch of the cholera vaccine campaign, combined with the opening of new maternity facilities and the construction of Khwisa Health Centre, reflects the government’s dedication to improving public health outcomes in Balaka and beyond.
