Malawi Unveils National Plan to Combat Cholera Outbreaks
The launch included introducing an oral cholera vaccine campaign as part of the broader control effort.
LILONGWE, Malawi— Malawi launched a national cholera control strategy Thursday, targeting persistent outbreaks that continue to affect several districts across the country, writes Meclina Chirwa.
Health Minister Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda introduced the Malawi Multi-Sectoral Cholera Control Plan at Lilongwe's Bingu International Conference Centre.
The initiative combines healthcare measures with water, sanitation, and infrastructure improvements.
The plan addresses cholera outbreaks reported in Machinga, Balaka, and Chitipa districts through a coordinated response involving multiple government agencies.
"Malawi developed the plan independently, without external pressure," said Dr. Wilfred Chalamira Nkhoma, who chairs the Presidential Task Force on Public Health Emergencies.
"Although the country is starting late, the intentions behind the plan are genuine and aimed at effectively controlling cholera."
Officials say the strategy will tackle climate change impacts, strengthen disaster management, improve cross-border health coordination, and establish sustainable financing mechanisms.
The launch included introducing an oral cholera vaccine campaign as part of the broader control effort.