Chlorine Dispensers Transform Rural Health, Boost Economic Prospects in Malawi
As the program expands, its potential to transform rural health and economic prospects continues to grow.
MANGOCHI, MALAWI— A simple chlorine dispenser is changing lives in rural Malawian villages, dramatically reducing waterborne diseases and improving economic opportunities, according to a new initiative by Evidence Action, writes Meclina Chirwa.
The organisation has installed 16,240 chlorine dispensers across eight districts, reaching over two million people and addressing critical health challenges in communities with limited access to clean water.
Trinity Chimtengo, a 27-year-old mother from Nyenje village, exemplifies the program's impact.
Her 5-year-old son Chikondi previously suffered chronic diarrhoea and stomach pains from contaminated water.
"I was worried sick about my child's health," Chimtengo said.
"We would spend a lot of money on medication, but the illnesses would keep coming back."
Since the chlorine dispenser's installation, her son's health has improved significantly.
"My child no longer suffers from diarrhoea and stomach pains," she said.
Evidence Action's Program Officer Ibrahim Muhammad confirmed the initiative's success.
"We've seen a significant decrease in the number of cases of diarrhoea, cholera, and other waterborne diseases," Muhammad stated.
The program's benefits extend beyond health. By reducing illness, villagers can work more productively, and children attend school more consistently.
Program Manager Moses Chisangwala emphasised the broader implications.
"The chlorine program is a vital investment in human capital, yielding significant economic returns," he said.
According to the World Health Organisation, 844 million people worldwide lack access to clean drinking water. In Malawi, 34% of the population lacks improved sanitation facilities.
The Ministry of Health notes waterborne diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five.
Hollystone Maumsamatha Kafanikhale, National Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Coordinator, praised the collaborative effort.
"The success of the chlorine dispenser initiative is a testament to the power of partnership," she said.
Investing $2.9 million annually, Evidence Action deploys 32,004 volunteers across Blantyre rural, Chiradzulu, Neno, Zomba, Balaka, Machinga, Mwanza, and Mangochi districts.
As the program expands, its potential to transform rural health and economic prospects continues to grow.