Reported by: S. Ernest
Date: 8th January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Ministry of Health has distributed cleaning materials and personal protective equipment to the Busaka Mumalikechi Ne Mustation Women’s Group in Lusaka. This initiative aims to prevent cholera outbreaks and facilitate the cleaning of 12 markets across the city.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at Ndeke House grounds, Health Minister Dr. Elijah Muchima emphasized the government’s commitment to combating cholera.
He confirmed that the outbreak is under control, with no new cases recorded in the last four days. In Nakonde district, 17 patients were treated at cholera treatment centers, all of whom have been successfully discharged without any fatalities.
Dr. Muchima stated that Nakonde and other areas remain on high alert to prevent the spread of the disease. He also announced the commencement of oral cholera vaccinations targeting high-risk populations in Nakonde district as part of the government’s proactive disease prevention measures.
The Minister commended the partnership with the Busaka Mumalikechi Ne Mustation Women’s Group and other stakeholders in supporting the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to maintain cleanliness in Lusaka. “This collaboration underscores our shared responsibility in ensuring a clean and healthy environment for all,” he said.
Mirriam Masando, Chairperson of the Busaka Mumalikechi Ne Mustation Women’s Group, expressed gratitude to the government for addressing sanitation challenges in markets. She specifically praised the closure of the illegal Kalunga Steel Market, which had poor sanitary conditions, and commended the government’s responsiveness to the concerns of marketeers.
THE DONATED EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:
CLEANING MATERIALS: 1 water tank, 400 shovels, 400 rakes, 400 hard brooms, 200 wheelbarrows, 120 rubber brooms, 350 toilet brushes, and 800 bottles of liquid handwashing soap.
PROTECTIVE GEAR: 950 dust coats, 1,100 work suits, 800 reflector jackets, 3,000 helmets, 900 gumboots, 5,000 face masks, and 3,000 heavy-duty gloves.
These items will be distributed to key markets, including BH, New Soweto, Old Soweto, CBD, Kulima Tower, Millennium, Intercity, Lumumba, Cha Cha Cha, COMESA, Chibolya, Mobil, and Kamwala.
This initiative aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision of fostering a culture of voluntary community work to maintain clean, safe and hygienic cities.
Ministry of Health Zambia
The Agency
