By Burnett Munthali
Blantyre, Malawi – In a collaborative effort to raise health awareness, the Lions Club of Mandala joined forces with the National Bank of Malawi (NBM) to provide free diabetes, weight, and blood pressure screenings at the bank’s headquarters in Blantyre. The initiative, held in honor of World Diabetes Day, offered employees and the public an opportunity to receive crucial health checks at no cost.
Lions Club of Mandala President Brian Bobby explained that the event is part of the club’s commitment to improving health in Malawi through strategic partnerships. He noted that the program operates with corporations purchasing health testing equipment, which is then donated to the Lions Club for use in underserved communities. “Many people in rural areas lack access to basic medical screening services. Through this collaboration, we ensure that the equipment used here will later serve those who would otherwise not have a chance for such testing,” Bobby said, highlighting the long-term community benefits of the initiative.
The screenings aim to raise awareness of diabetes and other health risks while promoting early diagnosis and proactive health management. The importance of diabetes testing, in particular, is underscored by the growing incidence of the disease in Malawi and across the world.
NBM Procurement Manager Maureen Mbejere expressed pride in the bank’s involvement, stressing that initiatives like these encourage individuals to take control of their health. “Health is vital to the well-being and productivity of our communities. This initiative empowers people with knowledge of their health status, which is the first step toward a healthier society,” Mbejere said.
By making health screening accessible, the Lions Club of Mandala and NBM hope to bridge health gaps and foster a culture of regular health check-ups. This collaboration marks a meaningful step toward improving health outcomes in Malawi, particularly in rural areas where access to medical services is limited. The equipment used at this event will continue serving these communities, offering them a vital resource for preventive healthcare long after World Diabetes Day.
