Expectant women at Dedza District Hospital have complained about water shortage at the facility which they say makes it difficult for them to observe hygiene.
One of the women, Alice Chikhata said the scarcity has forced many to buy water from vendors, which others cannot afford as it is expensive.
“We, therefore, ask authorities to solve the problem to avoid an outbreak of diseases at the hospital,” she said.
Another expectant woman, Abesi Makiyoni said they are failing to cook food because of lack of water.
Dedza District Hospital Advisory Committee chairperson Saidi Bauti urged the authorities to address the challenge.
“If the problem is not solved in time, it will cause waterborne diseases. My appeal to the hospital management committee is to consult the water board to solve the problem,” he said.
In response, Dedza District hospital spokesperson Mwai Liabunya acknowledged the problem, saying it has also affected Dedza residents.
“Just like other public institutions, residences and offices in the district, we are equally affected by the erratic water supply,” he said.
Liabunya said the hospital’s hygiene and sanitation were affected as the facility was supposed to be cleaned regularly.
“In addition, water is needed at the theatre for operations and at the maternity wing,” he said. Central Region Water Board spokesperson Zephelino Mitumba confirmed that Dedza Hospital officials complained about the water shortage.
