By Jones Gadama
Machinga District Council has made significant strides in improving health services delivery in the district, thanks to internally generated revenue.
According to a recent full council meeting, the council has upgraded health facilities and procured essential equipment to enhance healthcare services.
Chairperson of the council’s Health Committee, Alexander Chikopa, highlighted the improvement of cold rooms at Machinga District Hospital and the procurement of an additional cold room for the facility as examples of the council’s achievements.
These upgrades will enable the hospital to store vaccines and medicines effectively, ensuring that patients receive quality healthcare services.
Furthermore, Chikopa revealed that plans are underway to upgrade Ntaja Health Centre to a Community Hospital.
This upgrade will not only increase access to healthcare services but also reduce the burden on Machinga District Hospital.
In addition to upgrading health facilities, the council has successfully rehabilitated ambulances using revenue generated within the district and funds from the Governance and Economic Social Development (GESD) programme.
This initiative will ensure that patients are transported safely and efficiently to health facilities, saving lives in emergency situations.
The council’s efforts to improve health services delivery are a testament to its commitment to enhancing the well-being of residents.
By investing in health infrastructure and equipment, the council is creating a healthier environment for the community.
However, not all is well in Machinga District. Traditional Authority Gunya has expressed displeasure with some communities for allegedly tolerating child marriages.
Child marriage is a serious issue that can have long-lasting negative effects on girls’ education, health, and well-being.
“It is unacceptable that some communities in our district are still practicing child marriage,” said Traditional Authority Gunya,adding that,,”We need to work together to eliminate this practice and ensure that our girls have access to education and opportunities for a brighter future.”
The council’s efforts to improve health services delivery and Traditional Authority Gunya’s concerns about child marriage highlight the importance of a multi-faceted approach to development.
By addressing health and social issues, the council and traditional leaders can work together to create a better future for the people of Machinga District.
Machinga District Council’s efforts to improve health services delivery using internally generated revenue are commendable.
The council’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services and upgrading health facilities will have a positive impact on the community.
However, the council and traditional leaders must also work together to address social issues like child marriage, which can have long-lasting negative effects on girls’ lives.
The people of Machinga District deserve access to quality healthcare services and opportunities for a brighter future.
With the council’s efforts and traditional leaders’ support, the district can make significant progress in improving the well-being of its residents.
As the council continues to work towards improving health services delivery, it is essential that it engages with the community and involves them in the decision-making process.
By working together, the council and the community can create a healthier and more prosperous future for Machinga District.
The upgrade of Ntaja Health Centre to a Community Hospital and the rehabilitation of ambulances are significant milestones in the council’s efforts to improve health services delivery.
These initiatives will not only enhance access to healthcare services but also save lives in emergency situations.
In the long run, the council’s efforts to improve health services delivery will have a positive impact on the district’s development.
By investing in health infrastructure and equipment, the council is creating a healthier environment for the community, which will contribute to economic growth and development.
Machinga District Council’s commitment to improving health services delivery is a testament to its dedication to the well-being of its residents.
With continued efforts and support from traditional leaders and the community, the council can make a significant difference in the lives of the people of Machinga District.