By Fostina Mkandawire

Salima, November 5, Mana: As one way of ensuring safety of food in the country, there is a call for strong collaboration between stakeholders to share responsibility in ensuring that food is free from harmful disease causing germs.

Speaking on Tuesday during the commemoration of the 2024, World Food Safety Day, held in Salima district, Deputy Director for Community and Preventive Health in the Ministry of Health, Kondwani Mamba, highlighted that adherence of food safety standards should never be taken for granted.

He said practicing safe food handling and being mindful of where food is prepared can prevent diseases.

“Actions like handwashing with soap before handling food and after using the toilet, use of safe water in food preparation, practicing safe storage of food, can help prevent foodborne diseases” he said.

Mamba said practicing safe storage of food and sharing knowledge about food safety practices within the community can make a difference and urged collaboration among stakeholders.

He said on its part, the Ministry of Health and stakeholders have developed the National Food Safety Policy, to provide policy direction for addressing challenges faced in the delivery of safe food in Malawi aimed at contributing towards improved food safety standards along the food value chain.

World Health Organization Malawi, Health Promotions Officer, Hudson Kubwalo, emphasized on the need for continuous capacity building of relevant stakeholders in food handling, which should include regular training, updating safety protocols, and investing in technologies that enhance traceability.

"We need to be updated on emerging issues to track the journey of food products through the supply chain, making it easier to identify and address issues if a food safety problem arises. By preparing for unforeseen challenges, we can safeguard not just our products but the health of our consumers.

"We will continue to support the country in developing policies that will ensure standards and that monitoring systems are followed, we are also investing in research and improving collaborating across borders and sectors." He said.

Chairperson for Salima District Council, Ephraim Manthepa called for continuous awareness to the public on the importance of food safety and hygiene, to avoid food borne diseases.

"As Malawi, we join the world in commemorating this day to highlight the importance of practices that help prevent food borne disease illnesses, raise awareness among consumers, food producers, and policy makers about food safety risks and their mitigation measures.

"We commemorate this day at community level as one of the frontline defenders of food safety due to its proximity to significant food safety activities such as fishing and farming to keep the population safe and free from potential health risks," he said.

The World Food Safety Day 2024 is being commemorated under the theme: "Food Safety: Be prepared for the unexpected."