Youth clubs lead clean-up effort to prevent cholera in Salima district
Salima youth clubs cleaned waste deposit site, reducing cholera risk, writes Peter Chilongo.
SALIMA, Malawi -Salima youth clubs from Kawone and Mwaiwathu in Traditional Authority (T/A) Kambwiri have joined forces to clean a waste deposit site, effectively combating the risk of cholera among residents, writes Peter Chilongo.
The initiative, organized by youth clubs and supported by the Red Cross office, drew significant participation from the community.
Among the esteemed attendees was T/A Kambwiri, who graced the event as the guest of honour, alongside the district youth officer.
Speaking on the sidelines of cholera prevention, Deputy Youth Network Chair Linda Mhula for the district said that the waste deposit site had been a breeding ground for diseases such as cholera.
"We saw that the site posed a significant threat to the health and well-being of the local population. Recognising the urgency of the situation, the youth clubs took the lead in mobilising volunteers and coordinating the cleanup effort," said Mhula.
She added that armed with gloves, brooms, and a determination to make a difference, the young volunteers descended upon the waste deposit site.
They worked tirelessly, removing piles of waste, plastic, and other hazardous materials.
The cleanup was an act of environmental stewardship and a vital step in preventing the outbreak and spread of cholera, a waterborne disease that had plagued the community for far too long.
T/A Kambwiri praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of community-driven efforts in combating public health challenges.
The district youth officer, equally impressed by the youth's commitment, pledged continued support and resources to empower similar initiatives in the future.
The T/A hailed the Red Cross for supporting the initiative that he believes will improve people's lives and help combat the pandemic in his area.
"The presence of the Red Cross office proved instrumental in providing guidance, equipment, and awareness on cholera prevention. We are grateful for their partnership, and we hope to continue working together to make our district safer and healthier," said T/A Kambwiri.