Despite Malawi marking 61 years of independence, the Eastern Region has long lacked access to artificial limb fitment services.

According to the Ministry of Health, around 82% of Malawians who have lost limbs cannot afford assistive devices due to high costs.

Speaking in Lilongwe during the official handover of artificial limb fitment machinery from the Government of India, Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo said the equipment will be installed at Zomba Central Hospital to serve people in the Eastern Region.

“The new centre is crucial as it will provide free, quality artificial limbs to individuals who previously couldn’t afford them,” said Kandodo.

She added, “This donation is significant for the Ministry of Health as it marks a step forward in achieving universal health coverage.”

Indian High Commissioner to Malawi, Subhari Gopalakrishnan, reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Malawi’s health sector.

“India and Malawi have a long-standing collaboration in healthcare. This symbolic handover is part of our ongoing development partnership,” he said.

Meanwhile, Zomba Central Hospital Controller of Administration Fredson Gambeni said the hospital is ready to serve people from the Eastern Region effectively.

The donation includes 1,000 artificial limb fitments and a fitment machine, all to be accessed free of charge at Zomba Central Hospital.

(Written By: Wilson Phiri)