Zambia: The Nyawa Rural Health centre in Kazungula District in Southern Province has recorded 956 non-blood diarrhea cases. The healthcare authorities within the district have claimed that this is a cause of concern for the people.
The officials have shared that this number is the highest in the district followed by Ngwezi rural health centre. The Nyawa Rural Health Center has reported 552 cases from January 1, 2024 to August 31, 2024.
Nyawa chiefdom in Kazungula district is faced with water crisis and poor sanitation. This is the main reason why the people are at a risk of having diarrhoea diseases. The officials have shared that it is important for the people of the district to ensure they follow preventive measures and take necessary precautions.
The officials have shared the situation came to light during a D-WASHE meeting. The event was hosted at the Kazungula Town Council new civic centre. The District Administrative Officer, Mbeha Akabondo presided over the meeting.
The District Commissioner saw several presentations of D-WASHE sector reports. During these presentations, the officials were informed that Nyawa Chiefdom in the district is facing serious issues with safe drinking water.
Further, the officials have shared that the chiefdom does not have appropriate sanitation facilities in most of the villages. Environmental Health Officer at Kazungula District Health Office, Choolwe Chaampita has also offered his views.
He believes that this challenge has emrged due to lack of safe drinking water and poor hygiene practices. The people in the chiefdom are still engaging in open defacation which makes the situation extremely.
“Health education sensitization on the importance of constructing proper toilets in Nyawa villages should be part of the agenda as D-WASHE members embark on verification of Open Defecation Free (ODF) villages in the area soon,” said Chaampita.
Meanwhile, the Kazungula Town Council Rural Water and Sanitation Officer Chanizya Phiri also shared some issues. She has disclosed that out of 182 schools in Kazungula district 40 schools have no toilets available.
Phiri appealed to the department of public health at the local authority to find more details about the issue. They were urged to find out how those schools can operate without toilets and facilities.
Further, they asked that during the next D-WASHE meeting, appropriate response should be given to the committee members.
Meanwhile, a representative from World Vision Zambia, Peter Phiri said his organization has so far constructed 10 boreholes benefiting a total population of 3, 079 people in some selected parts of Nyawa Central ward.