Community sources K6m for clinic project

Tired of travelling long distances to access primary healthcare, people of Chongole Village in Nkhotakota have raised K6 million for the construction of a clinic.

Community members travel about 26 kilometres to Malowa Health Centre.

In an interview, group village head Chongole said the facility will mainly provide under-five services.

“We raised money through contributions from community members and well-wishers. The project has also received a nod from the district health office,” he said.

Chongole also said they have completed almost 60 percent of the civil works at the site.

On his part, Chongole Health Action Group chairperson Augustine Wazayo said people made the decision following increased cases of malaria among children in the area.

“We want to fight malaria, among other illnesses,” he said.

Wazayo also said the facility is expected to start operating before the end of the year and appealed to well-wishers for more support.

Catherine Mngali, a community member, hailed the project, saying it will alleviate problems that women and children face in accessing healthcare services.

“Mobility becomes a challenge, especially during the rainy season,” she said.

Once completed, the facility will serve about 6 000 people