Chikwawa district reports spike in STI cases, Ngabu leads surge
To combat the trend, the Chikwawa district health office plans to intensify awareness campaigns and collaborate with Banja La Mtsogolo's Last Mile Project to promote condom distribution.
CHIKWAWA, Malawi— Ngabu Rural Hospital in Chikwawa district has reported the highest number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among 26 health facilities in the region for the first quarter of 2024, writes Moses Thole.
The hospital recorded 1,249 STI cases, followed closely by Chikwawa District Hospital with 1,186 cases. Alumenda Health Center reported the lowest number with just 23 cases.
Overall, the district registered 5,609 STI cases in the quarter, a significant increase from 4,803 cases in the last quarter of 2023.
Dalitso Banda, the district's STI coordinator, attributed the surge to poverty and the ongoing Shire Valley Transformation Programme.
"Many women and girls are engaging in risky behavior for financial gain," Banda said. "The construction of canals as part of the SVTP has also contributed to the rise in STI cases."
To combat the trend, the Chikwawa district health office plans to intensify awareness campaigns and collaborate with Banja La Mtsogolo's Last Mile Project to promote condom distribution.
Joseph Luben, a concerned citizen, emphasized the importance of condom use in preventing STI spread and protecting public health in the district.
The health office's response highlights the challenges faced by rural communities in Malawi in addressing public health issues amidst economic development projects.