Zambia: The Zambia Network for Human Rights Defenders has commended the government for responding to the Cholera pandemic. However, Advocacy Coordinator Armytage Mumbwali said that the actions of the government are not enough and appropriate.
The government have taken control of the situation by invoking Statutory Instrument-SI 79 of 2017 on Public Health.
Under the instrument, there is a gathering of more than five people in one place. The step has been taken to curb the spread of cholera among the people of the country. The Ministry of Health has been working hard to contain the infection. Many districts of Zambia are already on high alert for the last three months.
It is worth noting that many organizations have come forward to assist the people of the country in their struggle. Although the Zambia Network for Human Rights Defenders appreciate the actions that the administration has taken so far, they think it is not adequate.
The Network is of the view that SI 79 of 2017 is not the best response to the epidemic because it targets citizens as opposed to effecting preventative measures. Notably, cholera is not a disease that can be spread through physical contact like Covid-19.
Accordingly, banning gatherings of people is expected to have little effect on the spread of the disease, which is caused by the consumption of contaminated food and water. The Ministry of Health has recorded 463 cases in 24 hours till January 17.
The cumulative number of cases recorded since October 2023 has gone over 10,413.
Advocacy Coordinator, Armytage Mumbwali, has expressed concern that despite Zambia experiencing repeated incidences of Cholera outbreaks. However, the health system has not been responsive.
Mumbwali said that Cholera outbreaks in Zambia are predictable. Accordingly, he questioned the government’s reactive responsiveness as opposed to putting in place preventive measures.
He has advised the government to invest in consultative approaches and employ well-researched and informed strategies during this time. He further observed that Health Researchers are not doing enough.
Meanwhile, the Young Women Christian Association Southern Province Coordinator, Given Moyo, has described the Cholera pandemic as catastrophic.
She has challenged women who are primary caregivers to comply with Public Health guidelines in order to prevent Cholera.