Mchinji DHO in fistula awareness campaign

Mchinji District Health Office (DHO) has urged women in the district to seek early treatment for obstetric fistula once they see symptoms or signs.

Speaking on Tuesday during a fistula awareness campaign in Traditional Authority Zulu, Mchinji DHO obstetric fistula coordinator Rose Gogoda said they wanted people to have an understanding of the condition and how it can be treated.

She emphasised the importance of prompt medical intervention and reassured affected individuals that Mchinji District Hospital now has a modern fistula ward constructed with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (Koica) through UNFPA.

Said Gogoda: “We are delighted to announce that the district hospital now has a dedicated fistula ward, a result of the invaluable support from Koica through UNFPA.

“This means that those grappling with fistula no longer need to endure costly and time-consuming referrals to Bwaila Fistula Centre in Lilongwe.”

She said healthcare workers have undergone specialised training to handle fistula cases effectively.

Mchinji district youth officer Maudling Nhlema shared insights on the challenges girls face in the district in their quest to accessing sexual and reproductive health services.

He said: “Through Koica and UNFPA’s Action for Teen Mothers and Adolescent Girls Project, we are taking steps to address sexual and reproductive health issues among girls.

“Our goal is to provide support, especially to girls or women with fistula conditions.”

Group village head Nkhombachikwera pledged to work with the community to raise awareness on fistula.

“I will ensure that everyone has access to the right information and healthcare now that we know the support is available at the district hospital,” he said.

The fistula awareness campaigns are part of the Action for Teen Mothers and Adolescent Girls Project and will extend to other T/As, including Mkanda and Mduwa in the district.