Women from traditional authorities (T/As) Makanjira and Pemba in Salima have expressed excitement with the construction of health facilities in their areas.
Salima District Council constructed Mnema Health Post in T/A Makanjira and Pemba Health Post in T/A Pemba using World Bank’s Governance to Enable Service Delivery funds.
at Pemba Health Post. | Lovemore Khomo
Speaking on Sunday when some Cabinet ministers commissioned the facilities, Andende Wame, a mother from Brahimu Village, T/A Makanjira, said they were travelling long distances to access healthcare services from Salima District Hospital.
She said: “It was difficult for pregnant women to go to Salima District Hospital for monthly antenatal services.
“In some cases, women were forced to deliver at home. However, things have changed as we will now get services nearby.”
Another woman Maria Perekani from T/A Pemba said the health facility will help under-five children access immunisation and nutrition services within easy reach.
“We will not fail to take our children for under-five clinic now that we have a health facility close to us,” he said.
Senior Chief Makanjira said patients were walking long distances to access healthcare services.
“The facility will promote safe motherhood and access to healthcare services,” he said.
On her part, Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda said hea l thy people were crucial for the country’s development; hence, government’s dedication to constructing health facilities within communities.
“We have opened two health posts in two T/As where women will access maternal care,” she said.
In his remarks, Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda said government will continue initiating various development projects to improve people’s lives.
Minister of Higher Education Jessie Kabwila, Minister of Lands Deus Gumba as well as Deputy Minister of Agriculture Benedicto Chambo and Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Joyce Chitsulo also attended the event.
