DEM warns pupils on waterborne diseases
District education manager (DEM) for Blantyre Rural Education Division Paul Chiphanda has advised students to observe precautionary measures in preventing waterborne diseases during the rainy season.
Chiphanda made the remarks on Thursday at Chikuli Trading Centre in Traditional Authority (T/A) Kunthembwe in Blantyre when he presided over activities marking this year’s Global Hand Washing Day.
“During rainy and mango seasons, we have cases of children failing to attend classes because they are suffering from waterborne diseases.
“Therefore, it’s imperative that parents emphasise to their children that they should always observe precautionary measures to avert the problem,” said Chiphanda.
On what the office is doing to improve access to safe and clean drinking water in rural areas, district water development officer Tamara Zembeni said 100 boreholes have been sunk with funding from the Chinese Government.
Zembani said the district is currently working towards drilling more water facilities.
Globally, the day is commemorated on October 10, but activities to mark the day in Blantyre were postponed to November 14 on logistical grounds.
Companies and non-governmental organisations that supported the Blantyre activities included Candlex Malawi, Mary’s Meals, Catholic Development Commission in Malawi (Cadecom), Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS), Water for People and Village Hygiene Project.
