Volunteers in Mzimba scale up access to health services

Malawi Network of Aids Service Organisations (Manaso) has commended community volunteers for improving access to healthcare services in Mzimba.

Manaso introduced a scorecard engagement programme in communities where volunteers follow up on treatment for tuberculosis (TB), HIV and malaria to ensure patients are not defaulting.

Speaking on Saturday during a meeting with stakeholders in the district, Manaso project officer Benjamin Mwamvani said they wanted to evaluate the scorecard initiative.

“We believe that community voices must be at the heart of health issues. These meetings enable community members to hold stakeholders accountable and ensure that they improve healthcare services,” he said.

Mwamvani said collaboration with community representatives was crucial in tackling pressing health issues such as shortage of healthcare workers.

Emfeni Health Centre Scorecard Committee chairperson Hudson Banda highlighted the committee’s role in linking communities with healthcare providers and reporting issues related to HIV, TB and malaria services.

He said: “The committee’s efforts have improved the provision of healthcare services with many individuals feeling more comfortable accessing HIV counselling and testing services.

“Community members were previously not seeking HIV counselling and testing services. The same applies to TB patients. However, with scorecard committees, it is easier for everyone to access the services.”

Banda said despite their effort to improve the community’s welfare, the scorecard committee faces transportation challenges that prevent them from engaging more patients to adhere to treatment.

M’Mbelwa District Council director of health Prince Chirwa commended the scorecard committee and Manaso for their efforts to ensure people access healthcare services.

“Community involvement is the cornerstone of a resilient health system. Through these structures, we have seen real progress in addressing HIV, TB and malaria treatment as well as reducing stigma in our communities,” he said.