By Sylvester Kumwenda

Dowa, September 29, Mana: Communities around Nalunga, Traditional Authority (TA) Chiwere in Dowa have hailed the rehabilitation of Nalunga Health Centre saying it will improve health service delivery in the area.

In an interview, Lines Faidon from Mawende Village, TA Chiwere said the old, small and worn-out structures challenged service delivery to the people.

"It was a challenge because the structure was not safe as it was too old. There was congestion as the number of service seekers was high compared to the capacity of the facility.

"Also to admit patients, and even expectant women, was a problem. As such some people used to travel to other facilities which was also expensive and time-consuming," she said.

However, she said the construction of the new structures has improved health service delivery.

"A lot of people can now easily access medical help when needed. We also expect to have enough health workers, drugs and equipment. This means a healthier community which can effectively engage in socio-economic activities," she said.

Through the Health Rehabilitation Fund, Dowa District Council has also constructed a new under-five clinic, out patient department and a modern maternity wing to replace the old structures at the hospital.

The maternity unit, amongst other facilities, has a delivery room, examination rooms, reception, offices, waiting room, drug store, sanitary facilities and also prenatal and postnatal services.

Chikondi Hamadi of Gooke Village said the new maternity wing will enable expectant women to access maternal services within their localities.

"On the other hand, the under-five clinic will also enable children to have their own separate section where they can effectively be helped by health workers," she said.

Carolyn Ignatious Maida, nurse and midwife technician at the hospital said the facility serves around 22,667 people.

"This is a considerably big number. We are happy that we now have these new structures which have improved our work.

"We also believe, once the new maternity facility is operational, expectant women will have the best services they can because it will have almost all essential equipment," she said.

Senior Group Mafika commended government, through the district council, for what he described as a significant development in his area which he said will help save lives and also foster development.