WATER IS LIFE - WaterAid enhances WASH activities at health facilities in Ntchisi district
The absence of a consistent water supply intensifies the difficulty in upholding hygienic and operational toilets, particularly in healthcare facilities where patients seek care and treatment.
NTCHISI, Malawi (Planet Defence) - WaterAid Malawi, supported by funding from Giorgio Armani's Acqua for Life initiative, has undertaken a significant initiative to improve hygiene and sanitation by installing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (Wash) facilities at the Mndinda and Nthondo Health Care Facilities (HCF) in Ntchisi district writes Charles Mkoka.
Laston Zungu, the Programmes Officer for WaterAid Malawi, shared during a media tour that both Mndinda and Nthondo HCFs faced challenges with dilapidated water supply systems, causing frequent service interruptions and an inability to meet the demand for water. This posed significant health risks to patients seeking medical assistance.
Zungu highlighted that sanitation facilities were also in disrepair, resulting in unsafe conditions, blocked sewerage systems, and non-functional toilets. The lack of a reliable water supply further exacerbated the challenge of maintaining clean and functional toilets.
Moreover, waste management in both health care facilities was inadequate, with improper disposal of waste materials, including placentas, posing severe health risks due to unsafe management practices.
With support from Giorgio Armani's Acqua for Life initiative, WaterAid Malawi installed solar-powered water supply systems equipped with 10,000-litre tanks, incinerators, and modern refuse pits, among other upgrades. These improvements have encouraged more pregnant women to utilize the facilities for deliveries.
Additionally, the installation of incinerators has dispelled myths surrounding the use of 'nsengwa' for traditional concoctions due to poor waste management practices.
"This initiative aligns with WaterAid Malawi's flagship program, The 150 Health Care Facility Challenge, aimed at advocating for increased Wash coverage in healthcare facilities across Malawi by mobilizing stakeholders and resources," stated Zungu.
Francisco Moses Folobati, the Ground Labourer at Mndinda Health Care Facility, expressed gratitude to WaterAid Malawi for their support in providing Wash facilities.
However, he mentioned that the availability of soap for handwashing remains a key challenge at times when stocks run out at the facility.
Both Mndinda and Nthondo Health Care Facilities offer outpatient and maternity services. Despite being designed for supporting an average population of 10,000 people, Mndinda caters to 10,780 people, while Nthondo serves 27,902 people, emphasizing the urgent need for reliable water and sanitation services across both facilities.