WaterAid has underscored the importance of strengthening water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services in health facilities as part of ongoing national efforts to improve the wellbeing of mothers, newborns and health workers.
The organisation shared the update during a media training workshop in Mponela, Dowa, where journalists were encouraged to enhance their reporting on WASH and women’s health issues.
According to WaterAid’s Head of Policy and Communications, Chandiwira Chisi, the country has made notable progress in expanding WASH access, but continued investment will ensure that all health centres consistently meet the recommended standards.
“Ensuring that every facility has reliable clean water and proper hygiene services is essential in promoting maternal and neonatal health,” said Chisi.
“We are working closely with government structures and partners to support ongoing improvements,” added CHISI.
He further said the media remains an important partner in raising awareness and encouraging communities to embrace good hygiene practices.
During the workshop, Kasungu District Director of Health and Social Services, Dr Emmanuel Golombe, amplified the value of strategic resource planning as districts continue implementing WASH-related programmes.
He said aligning financing with local needs would help sustain the gains Malawi is making toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation.
Deputy Director in the Reproductive Health Directorate, Juliana Mubanga, emphasised that strengthening WASH systems is central to safe motherhood and newborn health. She stressed that enhanced collaboration between government departments, partners such as WaterAid, and communities will contribute to safer, cleaner environments in health facilities.
The two-day training, organised by WaterAid, brought together journalists from across the country to build their capacity in reporting WASH and women’s rights issues, supporting national efforts to promote healthy and resilient communities.
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