ZANIS STORY – Chadiza District in Eastern Province has officially launched a new community-led monitoring project aimed at combating malaria, a persistent issue in the region.
The Provincial Women’s Development Association (EPWDA) Programmes Manager, Ernest Kabulansando, announced that Chadiza is one of six districts in Eastern Province selected for this three-year initiative. The other participating districts include Nyimba, Petauke, Chasefu, and Chipangali.
The Community-Led Monitoring (CLM) project will focus on nine health facilities in Chadiza and engage 34 community-based volunteers. Mr. Kabulansando explained that CLM harnesses local insights to transform health system data into actionable advocacy campaigns. The project aims to improve the accessibility, availability, affordability, acceptability, and quality of malaria services, ensuring they meet the community’s needs and uphold their rights.
Mr. Kabulansando highlighted the significance of community involvement in the monitoring process to promote transparency, accountability, and ongoing improvements in service delivery. The project is expected to generate valuable data on health services and empower local communities to advocate for solutions that address barriers to effective malaria care.
District Administrative Officer Masautso Mwale expressed concern over the rising malaria incidence in Chadiza. According to Ministry of Health data, malaria cases in the district increased from 769 per 1,000 people in 2022 to 943 per 1,000 people in 2023. Mr. Mwale stressed the urgency of the project and called for proactive collaboration among stakeholders to address the health crisis and drive economic growth.
The initiative is supported financially by the Global Fund, Churches of Health Association of Zambia, Development Aid from People to People in Zambia (DAPP), and the EPWDA, in partnership with the Ministry of Health. The project has garnered support from government departments, religious organizations, and community members, underscoring a united effort to tackle malaria and improve public health in Chadiza.
