By Ireen Mseteka

Likoma, August 23, Mana: Likoma District Council has awarded Chaduka Building Contractor and Uncle Sammy Construction Companies a K459 million contract to construct an outpatient department (OPD) at Chima Health Centre in Likoma, the only public health facility in the district.

 Speaking on Tuesday during official handover of the construction site for the project, Vice Chairperson for the district’s Project Implementation Committee, Victoria Nkhoma said many lives will be saved in the district since additional medical services will be offered at the health facility.  

"We have been told that the OPD will also have an X-ray machine, which means, many people will be diagnosed at the OPD which will be cheaper than traveling to the mainland to access the services," said Nkhoma.

Director of Health and Social Services (DHSS), Dr Grace Mathewe said once completed the OPD will alleviate some problems the health sector in the district is currently encountering, citing congestion and monetary expenses when it comes to referrals among others.

He disclosed that they spend about K700 000 to refer a patient to central hospitals for x-ray services. 

Director of Administration (DOA) for Likoma District's Council, Grace Kamtande advised the contractors to complete the project in time. 

"It is our hope that you are going to abide by the agreement and we would like the structure to be in operation by early next year," said Kamtande.

In his remarks, Director for Uncle Sammy Construction Company, Sammy Phiri said they will deliver to the expected standards, adding that they will complete the project in four months.