By Fostina Mkandawire

Salima, May 3, Mana: Deputy Minister of Health Noah Chimpeni has called for increased support in Malawi’s fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), particularly Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS), citing the need for healthy citizens to achieve the country’s Vision 2063 goals.

Speaking at the launch of the Malawi-German FGS Initiative at Maganga Primary School in Salima on Friday, Chimpeni said access to safe water is essential in preventing schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease that affects millions, particularly women and girls.

“To achieve our development goals, we need a healthy and productive population. Diseases like female genital schistosomiasis affect women disproportionately and hinder their productivity,” said Chimpeni.

He said integrated approaches in the health sector are important to tackle diseases therefore the collaboration between GIZ and Ministry of Health to tackle FGS is a good initiative to increase awareness and promote early health-seeking behaviour.

The initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the German Development Agency (GIZ), will be piloted in Salima and Dedza districts.

It aims to raise awareness, improve diagnosis, and ensure treatment of FGS, a disease often caused by contact with contaminated freshwater.

Germany’s Ambassador to Malawi, Ute König, said her government is committed to supporting Malawi in its fight against NTDs.

She commended the World Health Organization (WHO) for supplying medication and technical support.

“FGS is a silent disease that damages the female reproductive system and increases the risk of cervical cancer. We are committed to help Malawi address this challenge through prevention, treatment, and community outreach,” said König.

König also noted that Germany considers health a key area of cooperation and emphasized the importance of reducing the stigma faced by women living with the disease.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 250 million people globally are affected by schistosomiasis.

In Malawi, FGS remains prevalent due to limited awareness and poor access to clean water.

WHO Representative in Malawi, Dr. Neema Kimambo, said FGS poses serious health risks including pain, bleeding, infertility, and anemia.

“This disease affects more women than men and is often misdiagnosed or ignored. Our focus is to support the government with technical expertise and ensure better detection and care,” said Kimambo.

She confirmed WHO’s continued commitment to help Malawi eliminate NTDs through training, research, and provision of medication.

The two-year initiative will focus on capacity building in health facilities, community education, and integration of FGS diagnosis into reproductive health services.

Malawi is among the pilot countries in this effort and officials are optimistic that the joint initiative will help reduce cases and improve women’s health outcomes.