Concerned Citizens from Nsanje have raised K1 million in two days to support the district hospital in its fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.
The citizens raised the money through a WhatsApp group created on Saturday.
In an interview yesterday, the citizen’s interim chairperson King Norman Rudi said they want to complement government’s efforts in fighting the pandemic.
He said: “As people from the district, we should help health workers with equipment to help patients effectively.
“Besides the district hospital, we also plan to reach out to 15 health centres serving rural communities in the district.”
On his part, Traditional Authority Chimombo challenged people in the district to have sense of ownership as far as health care is concerned.
He said: “Only people with unity can achieve good things in life.
“People should learn to contribute towards a common good, instead of relying on donations from well-wishers.”
In his remarks, Nsanje district director of health and social services Gilbert Chapweteka thanked the grouping for the initiative.
He said the hospital was in need of oxygen cylinders.
Said Chapweteka: “So, we needed about K1 million to get them.
“However, we still need personal protective equipment for frontline health workers and patients.”
The group comprises the district’s nine traditional leaders, politicians, faith leaders, working classes and businesspeople.
As of Sunday, Nsanje District had registered 123 confirmed Covid-19 cases out 439 tests. The district has 71 active cases while 50 have recovered and three have died.
