By Lawrence Chilomo and Noel Chimwala.

Chikwawa, August 25, Mana: Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 and Cholera National Coordinator Dr. Brighton M’baya has commended authorities in Chikwawa District for their efforts in cholera response.

M’baya hailed the authorities Thursday during a joint inspection tour of Chipwaila Health Center, which was organised by Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) and the presidential taskforce.

“What we have observed here is quite impressive and commendable in terms of ending cholera. The majority of cholera cases being registered at Chipwaila Health Centre are actually coming from Mozambique,” said M'baya.

Chief Preventive Officer for Chikwawa District Council, Veronica Mkukumila, attributed the success to collaborative efforts by the district health sector, partners and local leaders.

“We joined hands to fight the vice from all levels and as health practitioners, we are doing our part while the traditional leaders are also playing their role in the community,” she explained.

One of the local leaders, Group Village Head Khilisimisi of Traditional Authority Ngabu said his goal is to ensure that cholera is completely eliminated in his village.

“I make sure that every household in my village has a toilet and everyone is following what health personnel are teaching us.

“We have also constructed a toilet for visitors and when a person is caught defecating in the open, that person pays a fine of K3,000,” he added.

MRCS Head of Health and Social Services Daniel Kapombosola Banda hailed the good working relationship that exists among the stakeholders in the district.