Likoma Hospital's Medical Waste Disposal Raises Health Concerns
St. Peter's Mission Hospital is operated by the Anglican Diocese of Northern Malawi under the Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM).
LIKOMA ISLAND, Malawi— Improper disposal of used medical supplies near St. Peter's Mission Hospital on Likoma Island has sparked concerns over potential health risks to the local community, writes Mercy Phiri.
Observers have criticized the open dumping of medical waste as "executive negligence," noting its proximity to schools and accessibility to children.
Jomo Suman, Health Promotion Officer for Likoma District Health Office (DHO), downplayed the risks, stating, "Empty vaccine vials are non-infectious wastes and do not pose a health hazard to the community."
However, he acknowledged, "People are not supposed to get access or be exposed to those types of wastes."
Suman cited the lack of a mechanical incinerator as a contributing factor to the disposal issues.
A site visit revealed hundreds of used syringes and drug bottles left unburied just outside the health facility.
George Jobe, Executive Director of Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN), condemned the practice.
"It is not healthy to throw used medical supplies anyhow that are harmful and can cause diseases to people," he said.
Jobe called for routine inspections of health facilities to promote proper waste management.
He emphasized, "Used medical supplies that can be burnt must be treated in incinerators while syringes and other items must be buried to avoid scavengers."
St. Peter's Mission Hospital is operated by the Anglican Diocese of Northern Malawi under the Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM).