Africa CDC Provides Cold Chain Gear to Boost Malawi Immunization
The shipment of refrigeration equipment and related gear aims to ensure vaccines remain viable through distribution to health facilities across Malawi.
LILONGWE, Malawi — The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided Malawi with cold chain equipment to help safely store and distribute life-saving vaccines, boosting the country's immunization program, writes Abraham Bisayi.
The support includes vaccine carriers, freezers, refrigerators, cold boxes, solar-powered units and spare parts.
It was officially handed over Friday to Malawi's Deputy Health Minister Halima Daud.
"I want to assure you that this equipment will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective storage of vaccines, ultimately leading to improved immunization coverage and the prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases in our country," Daud said.
She thanked Africa CDC and the Mastercard Foundation for the assistance, which she said will improve the health and well-being of all Malawians.
Immunization is a key strategy Malawi is using against communicable diseases.
Daud disclosed the government's commitment to ensuring no child in Malawi is left behind on immunizations.
Africa CDC Regional Director Dr. Lul Riek highlighted that the cold chain supply will strengthen Malawi's Expanded Program on Immunization by boosting vaccine storage capacity.
"Africa CDC remains resolute in its unwavering commitment to honor the mandate entrusted by Heads of State and Government steadfastly supporting African Union Member States in building robust, resilient and sustainable health systems that protect the health and well-being of all Africans including Malawians," Riek said.
The shipment of refrigeration equipment and related gear aims to ensure vaccines remain viable through distribution to health facilities across Malawi.