Nkhata Bay NGO builds health centre

In an effort to alleviate problems people face to access health services in some parts of Nkhata Bay, Kunyanja Development Organisation (Kudo) has constructed a health centre at Tukombo in the district.

The facility, which cost over K19.8 million, will serve a population of about 18 000 people.

Speaking when Kudo handed over the centre to Ministry of Health on Wednesday, the organisation’s chairperson Mbumba Achuthan said people of Tukombo face many challenges accessing health services because facilities are far away from the area.

She, therefore, called on government to promptly open the centre, saying people have waited for 10 years to have the structure completed.

“We understand in other areas government has taken over two years to start operating health facilities despite there being required structures in place, as such, we are appealing for the speedy opening of this health centre,” said Achuthan.

She also challenged chiefs and people of the area to mould bricks and collect sand, saying Kudo could help construct a guardian shelter, maternity-waiting room and a health worker’s house. The facility currently has one health worker’s house.

Nkhata Bay district health officer Albert Mkandawire said his  office is committed to have the health centre opened but they will have to wait for the Medical and Nurses councils to certify the structure for registration.

He said his office had already communicated to the councils about the facility.

“Let me thank the late Aleke Banda for being a visionary person. I will ensure that the health centre is registered quickly. Other items such as mattresses, drugs and equipment are already available,” said Mkandawire.

Funds for building the health centre were sourced from European Union, Dosani Trust and Krista Harris.