Malawi gets K62m for malnutrition fight

The World Health Organization (WHO) has given the Ministry of Health 48 sets of paediatric severe acute malnutrition (Pedsam) kits worth about $35 500 (about K62 million) to help in combating the condition.

WHO country representative Neena Kimambo, speaking during the handover in Lilongwe, said each kit is designed to provide essential supplies necessary for the effective treatment and care of children suffering from malnutrition and malaria.

She said the kits have vital resources aimed at reaching 50 severe acute malnutrition paediatric cases for three months.

Said Kimambo: “This provision ensures a sustained effort in combating malnutrition among our nation’s children, reflecting our commitment to their well-being.”

She further reiterated WHO’s commitment to improving public health outcomes and ensuring access to essential healthcare resources for all Malawians.

Receiving the kits, Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda thanked WHO, saying the donation will go a long way in reducing cases of malnutrition and providing malaria treatment, particularly in areas affected by recent disasters.

“As a country, we have been experiencing climatic shocks such as flooding, heavy rains and drought, affecting food security and also resulting in increased cases of malaria. This is timely as it will help in responding to those challenges,” she said.

Chiponda said through coordination with district health officers, they will ensure that only those intended benefit from the donation.

According to the 2024 Humanitarian Action for Children Report by United Nations Children’s Fund, about 3.7 million people, including children are in need of nutrition assistance in Malawi following the devastating effects of the El-Nino.

According to the Ministry of Health, malaria accounts for 36 percent of out-patient cases and 15 percent of all hospital admissions in the country.

In 2020, malaria killed  2 500 Malawians, translating to six deaths per day while over 6.9 million suffered from the disease in the same period, making it the most prevalent disease in the country.

President Lazarus Chakwera in 2021 launched the Zero Malaria Starts with Me Campaign aimed at eradicating malaria by 2030.