Malawi has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating obstetric fistula, with government and development partners working together to restore dignity and improve maternal health outcomes for women across the country.
Speaking during the commemoration of International Fistula Day at Challenger Ground in Traditional Authority Kanyenda, Nkhotakota, Deputy Minister of Health Noah Chimpeni said fistula remains a serious public health issue, particularly among adolescent girls and young women. He stressed the importance of building a responsive health system that prevents such cases.
“Fistula is preventable, and no woman should suffer needlessly. We are strengthening our health systems to ensure timely and quality maternal care is available at all levels,” he said.
In support of this goal, Iceland’s First Secretary Sigurdur Geirsson announced that over $4 million has been invested in short-term interventions in Nkhotakota and Mangochi. These efforts aim to build district capacity for long-term sustainability.
“This project, which includes support in Nkhotakota and Mangochi, is valued at over four million US dollars, with a substantial portion allocated here in Nkhotakota,” said Geirsson.
“These are short-term interventions aimed at strengthening district capacity. Our goal is to build a sustainable system that can operate independently once we exit,” he noted. “
Additionally, UNFPA’s Deputy Country Representative Tamisayi Chinhengo emphasised the role of prevention, noting that more than 6,000 women have benefited from surgical repair since 2003. The programme also supports community awareness, reintegration of survivors, and midwifery training.
“Women should never have to suffer from obstetric fistula,” said Chinhengo.
“Our work focuses on prevention through midwifery training, ending early pregnancies, and strengthening maternal care.”
Meanwhile, Dr Ennert Chipungu of Bwaila Fistula Centre shared that the facility targets 450 surgical cases this year. Survivors are also empowered as fistula ambassadors to educate others.
“Our centre treats an average of 350 women per year, with this year’s target set at 450,” she said.
“Since launching the Iceland-supported programme in 2023, we’ve already repaired 36 cases in Nkhotakota alone,” added Chipungu.
Under the theme “Her Health, Her Right: Shaping a Future Without Fistula,” Malawi’s multi-stakeholder approach is creating a path toward a fistula-free generation.
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