BLANTYRE, Malawi — Bangwe Community Hospital is struggling to provide adequate healthcare with only nine beds serving a population of approximately 217,000 people, prompting appeals for private sector support, writes Tionge Hara.
Kennedy Lowa, facility in-charge, made the appeal when Faizan Global Relief Foundation donated eight beds to the hospital, nearly doubling its capacity.
“We need help to improve our services. There’s a lot that is needed,” Lowa said.
Ibrahim Omar, spokesperson for Faizan Global Relief Foundation, said the private sector has a crucial role in supporting healthcare facilities like Bangwe.
“The government cannot do everything alone. That’s why we are pleading with other stakeholders to always come in as well,” Omar said.
The donation of eight beds represents a significant increase for a facility that previously operated with just nine beds for a catchment population of more than 200,000 residents.
Blantyre City Mayor Isaac Jomo Osman praised the foundation for its donation and urged the community to take care of the facilities.
He warned against manipulating politicians, saying people from some parties often spread lies to create conflict between leaders, hindering development.
Osman applauded Faizan Global Relief for their efforts and encouraged them to continue supporting the community.
The bed shortage at Bangwe Community Hospital reflects broader challenges facing Malawi’s healthcare system, where facilities often lack basic equipment and infrastructure to serve growing urban populations.
Faizan Global Relief Foundation previously distributed food packages and cash assistance to 2,000 people in Thyolo and Mulanje districts during the Christmas holiday period as part of its relief efforts.
-AfricaBrief
