Mbumba Banda
Nation Publications Limited (NPL) Mother’s Day Fun Run has been going on for 10 years and has raised funds for equipment and medical supplies in maternity wards of public hospitals. Money is raised each year to donate to a hospital identified on a rotational basis in the South, Central and Northern regions. Mbumba Banda is the fun run patron as she is NPL chief executive officer. She has nurtured fun run to where it is and she speaks with Caroline Somanje on its achievements.
Tell who Mbumba Banda is.
I am a Christian mother of two, a Malawian and run Nation Publications Limited (NPL).
What sort of upbringing did you have?
I was brought up in a Christian home by parents with strong values. Discipline and respect were insisted upon at all times. HHH (Hardwork, Honesty and Humility) and AAH (Always Aim High) were principles we had to internalise and practise. Equality was the order of the day with my brothers and I being required to do chores equally. There was very little divide between what was expected of us.
What drives you to think about fellow women?
A realisation that not all women are fortunate enough to be in a situation where they can determine certain outcomes of their own lives and circumstances; and recognising that I am fortunate enough to be in a position to make a difference.
How do you juggle your time to accommodate all your responsibilities?
Prioritisation is a key starting point. Once priorities are determined, planning must be done so that key and important issues are taken care of.
What have been the strides made in the fight against maternal mortality?
When we started the project in 2005, the maternal mortality rate was extremely high. At the first function we held, one health care provider made the startling statement that put the figures into sharp context. She talked of an equivalent of a16-seater minibus load of women dying each day due to complications in child birth. Today there are 550 deaths per 100 000 births. Much as this is a marked improvement of the situation, we still have one of the highest mortality rates on the continent.
What is pleasing to note, however, is that there is heightened awareness about the plight of mothers and babies with the result that more individuals and organisations have joined the fight to ensure that mothers and babies do not die needlessly.
In the 10 years of fun run, can you mention the difference NPL’s act has made in the health sector?
NPL, partner organisations and individuals have donated life-saving equipment to 10 district hospitals and rural health centres in three districts.
Can you give the total figure so far raised towards this cause since inception?
We have raised in excess of K 100 million so far.
How has NPL managed to sustain Fun Run to be able to attract huge donations and the participation of notable personalities?
Firstly, based on feedback received from our partners and donors, one aspect that attracts support is that it is clearly a worthwhile cause that they can identify with. Secondly, the way the Fun Run Project is organised ensures that donations in full go to the beneficiaries so organisations that deal with us know that their contribution will, therefore, be used for the intended purpose.
What plans do you have to take the concept to even greater heights?
Initially, we donated equipment to only district hospitals. As of three years ago, we added rural health centres in the districts we visit as recipients of the donations. With the growth in contributions from our traditional partners and the addition of new donors each year, we aim to ensure that we can contribute more items to the districts we visit because we still cater for only a part of their requirements.
Will you always be the patron?
Always is a long time and there will definitely be a change at some point, but it would be nice to be able to participate in this noble project and see its impact grow for a few years more.
How has Fun Run impacted NPL?
NPL has found a worthwhile cause that enables it to give back to the community in a meaningful way. At the same time, NPL has built strong and mutually beneficial relationships with partners, donors and recipients that have opened doors unrelated to the Fun Run. Members of staff within the organisation have also, through the fun run, had the satisfaction of being a part of reaching out to the needy in a way that brings personal fulfillment.
How has it impacted you personally?
Every time I experience it, I grow. It is not possible to participate in a project like this and not benefit from it. I have become more aware of the plight of women and children and, through that awareness, have become more ready to participate in any other endeavours that will make the slightest difference.
Do you see the idea being worth its while?
Where you can save even one life or ensure that the quality of the life of one mother or one child is not affected negatively, there is no question about whether the idea is worthwhile.
Would you say maternal health matters have been adequately championed in the country?
I believe that awareness has been created and it is a subject that is kept at the fore of the minds of people who can do something about it. However, awareness is one thing and making adequate progress in addressing the issue is another thing.
Any last words.
No mother should walk into a maternity facility anywhere in Malawi with doubts in her mind about a positive outcome. No family should lose a mother because of the natural process of giving birth. Every child deserves the right start to life. Together, as individuals and organisations, we can make a difference. I would like to see more individuals come forward with the little they have because with the participation of many, we can provide much. n
