By Gloria Asante Mvula

Mchinji, November 10, Mana: Adolescent girls and young mothers can prevent obstetric fistula, a serious childbirth injury, if they are informed about the condition and its warning signs.

This was revealed on Friday when Freedom From Fistula Foundation (FFFF), with funding from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), hosted a two-day training in Mchinji and Dedza, focusing on educating patient ambassadors on preventing, identifying, and supporting those affected by fistula.

Zione Moyo, FFFF's Psychosocial Officer, encouraged the patient ambassadors to work directly with communities to raise awareness of fistula, encouraging early education for young girls on the importance of avoiding early marriage and teenage pregnancies.

“By educating girls early, we can help them make informed choices that protect them from the risks of fistula,” said Moyo.

Participants learned to recognise fistula symptoms, understand preventive measures, and promote effective use of healthcare resources.

According to recent data, Malawi’s Bwaila Fistula Centre treats between 300 to 350 women with fistula annually.

Coordinator at the Fistula Centre Margaret Moyo said, as of November 2024, the centre has already registered and repaired 310 cases, a figure expected to match last year’s numbers by December.

“This shows that fistula remains a serious issue in Malawi. In Mchinji alone, we have only registered 15 cases, but there are undoubtedly many more affected women who lack information and support,” said Moyo.

Moyo also stressed the urgency of targeting younger women, as fistula cases are particularly prevalent among girls aged 15-24 who often face early marriages and pregnancies.

She encouraged adolescent girls and young mothers to consider family planning options to complete their education and plan for healthier pregnancies.

Liness Chikumbutso, a fistula survivor from Traditional Authority Magomero in Dedza, described how, following her surgery, KOICA provided her with a solar unit to help her generate income.

“I used the solar to start charging phones, which enabled me to buy two acres of land and six pigs. I now have a stable income and am able to participate fully in community life,” she shared.

Rose Gogoda, the fistula coordinator at Mchinji District Hospital, reported that seven cases this year involved girls under 20.

The FFFF which is working closely with the Ministries of Gender, Social Welfare, and Youth, continues to champion awareness efforts across Malawi, aiming to integrate fistula prevention into community health initiatives.