The Japanese Government, through Grant Assistance for Grassroots (GGP) project, has started constructing a K71 million health centre at Therere in Chikwawa District.
The health centre, which is being implemented by the Gift of the Givers Foundation, is expected to offer maternity and general out-patient services.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony on Friday in Chikwawa, Japan Deputy Ambassador Hirotsugu Ikeda said the GGP project aims at developing marginalised communities to uplift their lives for the better.
“The health centre will be ready in the next six months and it will enable over 12 000 people to access quality healthcare services at a short distance,” he said.
In her remarks, Deputy Minister of Lands Abida Mia, who is also Chikwawa Mkombezi legislator, said people in her area were facing challenges to access quality healthcare services.
She said: “This project will help to reduce child mortality rate and save lives of women when giving birth.
“I have sourced funds from a Japanese businessperson that will be used to construct two houses, toilets and a borehole for this health centre.” Chikwawa District acting director of health and social services Dr Wamaka Msopole said they will be able to provide primary healthcare services when the project is completed.
