Deputy Minister of Health Halima Daudi says government is committed to ensuring health for all and urged sustained efforts towards achieving universal health coverage.
Daudi made the remarks on Tuesday as she presided over the commemoration of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) day at Chiponde Health Center in T/A Chimutu, Lilongwe District.
Speaking during the commemoration, Daudi highlighted the significance of celebrating the progress towards achieving health for all.
She emphasized that Malawi, in collaboration with nations worldwide, observes UHC day annually on December 12.
“The Government of Malawi, through the Ministry of Health, has achieved the construction of 20 health posts in the first phase of 55. As we move forward, we will prioritize the recruitment of health workers, aiming to add 2,741 health workers by the end of the 2023/24 financial year,” stated Daudi.
The Deputy Minister further outlined the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and equipment across all health facilities.
She announced the inauguration of phase 1 of the Lilongwe Institute of Orthopaedics and Neurosurgery at Kamuzu Central Hospital, providing comprehensive services ranging from trauma care to musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
“Under the leadership of His Excellency Dr Lazarus Chakwera, the government plans to invest in diagnostic capacity. Daudi disclosed the procurement of 21 digital x-ray machines to strengthen diagnostic services for essential health services. Additionally, medical oxygen generating plants will be installed in hospitals to ensure the availability of gas oxygen crucial in managing critical respiratory cases and related diseases,” she added.
In her words, Dr. Neema Kimambo, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative to Malawi, emphasized the need for increased investment in health financing and financial risk protection for the poor.
Kimambo acknowledged the efforts of the Universal Health Coverage Coalition in Malawi, serving as a platform for over 25 local and international civil society organizations.
“This coalition collaborates on advocacy, communication, sensitization, and lobbying activities to align Malawi’s health sector policies and investment decisions with UHC goals,” said Kimambo.
This year, the day was commemorated under the theme “Health for all: Time for action
