In a significant step towards regional cooperation the Malawi Environmental Health Association (MEHA) and the Zambia Institute of Environmental Health (ZIEH) engaged in an environmental dialogue at the Solwezi Municipal Council.
The 25-member delegation’s visit marks a concerted effort to exchange knowledge and best practices in environmental health management.
During an interactive session with the council’s Department of Public Health and Development Planning, both parties presented their mandates and programmes, showcasing the strides they have made in environmental health and planning.
Stanley Mbewe the Town Clerk of Solwezi Municipal Council, welcomed the delegation, stating, “We are committed to fostering a robust partnership with our counterparts in Malawi. It is through sharing our successes and challenges that we can forge a path to environmental sustainability.”
He stressed the importance of collaboration between Malawi and Zambia in disease prevention and sharing of innovative ideas to improve environmental health.
Mbewe further highlighted the significance of such exchange meetings, remarking, “The recent disease outbreaks in our nations underscore the urgent need for sustainable environmental practices. These dialogues are not just about sharing knowledge; they are about building a future where our communities can thrive without the shadow of health crises.”
Peter Collins Kamuloni, Vice President of MEHA, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to learn from Zambia’s experiences.
“The Solwezi Municipal Council’s approach to environmental health management is exemplary. We are grateful for the insights and look forward to implementing similar practices in Malawi,” said Kamuloni.
The visit culminated in a tour of the Solwezi Kipemba Dumpsite, providing the delegation with a practical perspective on waste disposal and management.
MEHA said the tour to Zambia is a testament to the shared vision of Malawi and Zambia in achieving a healthier and more sustainable environment for their citizens. The association looks forward to deepen its knowledge by visiting other SADC and African countries to benchmark best practices in environmental health management.
