By Rose Cross Mahorya

Mzuzu, February 4, Mana: Mother Care Groups (MCGs) in Mzuzu City and Mzimba North have been applauded for demystifying immunizations.

The care groups are supported by Health Systems Strengthening Program (HSSP) which is run by Ministry of Health with Support from GAVI and the Vaccine Alliance.

Speaking Saturday after visiting Chikundula MCG in Mzuzu City, District Health Environmental Officer for Mzimba North, Kennedy Kaonga, said the groups are playing a vital role in providing vaccine and health related talks within their areas.

“Our office used to face challenges in promoting high rate of vaccine uptake because of misconceptions and myths surrounding vaccines.

“There was a lot of resistance against vaccines, including Covid-19 vaccine. However, with the establishment of the MCGs, percentage of children getting vaccinated has increased,” said Kaonga.

He added that MCGs, in other areas, have also advocated for refrigerators for storage of vaccines, constructed houses for health surveillance assistants and under five clinic structures.

Chairperson for Chikundula MCG, Christina Chiumia, commended Ministry of Health and Malawi Health Equity Network, the project’s implementing partner, for the group’s capacity building in advocating for communities’ adherence to vaccines.

“We are grateful for the knowledge imparted in us because, even if the project period expires, we will continue sharing the knowledge with others for the sustainability of these gains,” said Chiumia.

The HSSP aims at empowering communities to monitor community health care service delivery and advocate for health related resources and services.