By Pickson Chipeso & Patience Longwe.
Lilongwe, December 20, Mana: Leader of Parliament, Hon. Richard Chimwendo Banda, has confirmed that the Cancer Center will open in the second week of January 2025.
Chimwendo made this announcement at Parliament in Lilongwe on Friday during the mid-year budget review.
He stated that the Cancer Center will be officially opened by President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera.
"This is good news, especially for patients who have been traveling abroad for cancer treatment or struggling to access medication," he said.
Chimwendo also highlighted the government's effort in prioritizing healthcare projects. He said almost 135 health centers have been completed, and 40 new health centers will be constructed in the coming year.
In addition, Chimwendo mentioned the government's focus on agriculture, with over 400,000 Malawians benefiting from cooperatives and agriculture loans.
Chimwendo praised President Chakwera for increasing the welfare fund for students from K150,000 to K550,000. Adding that the number of students benefiting from loan boards has also increased from 9,000-10,000 to 30,000.
He emphasized that the prioritization of tertiary education is crucial, noting that no college—whether private or public—is now closing due to a lack of fees or resources.
Meanwhile, the Leader of Opposition, George Chiponda, commended Parliament for bringing its proceedings closer to the people through the session they held at Dedza Stadium.
"This initiative was commendable, however, it lacked certain elements that would have made it a truly inclusive and engaging activity for the people. I hope that next year we can build on this foundation and do even better," he highlighted.
"I also commend the adherence to resolutions made by the Business Committee. Unlike the previous sitting, I have been impressed by the progress made, including the response to the opposition’s call for President Chakwera to appear in Parliament to answer questions under Standing Order 70," he said.
Today, Parliament adjourned, marking the conclusion of its four-week mid-year budget review session, which began on November 25, 2024.
