CHOLERA RESPONSE PROGRAMME LAUNCHED IN MPULUNGU

ACTION Aid Zambia has launched the cholera response programme in Mpulungu District, Northern Province.

Head of Programmes, Musonda Kabinga, says the organisation will help the district strengthen preparedness and response to control cholera outbreaks in communities by supporting case management, infection prevention, and community engagements.

Mr Kabinga explained that the organisation will help to carry out cholera response activities in the district, as it is one of the hotspot areas for cholera outbreaks in Zambia.

He added that the organisation, with support from the humanitarian action and response team, has set aside a budget of K670,000, which will be used for the exercise in its operating areas.

Speaking when he launched the programme, Mr Kabinga stated that his organisation has also donated cholera prevention materials, hygiene products, nutrition supplements, medication, and protective gear.

Mpulungu District Commissioner, Gerhard Sikazwe, called for concerted efforts from stakeholders to prevent the disease outbreak.

Mr Sikazwe said 62 out of the 116 districts in the country have recorded cholera cases, hence the need to put up a strong fight.

He called for a multidisciplinary strategy that includes vigorous surveillance and case management.

Mr Sikazwe said it is important to ensure access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene in order to fight the cholera outbreak in the district. He said these efforts to combat cholera should be complemented by robust community sensitisation and education.

The District Commissioner has since thanked ActionAid Zambia for coming on board to help fight the further spread of the epidemic by donating staff that will be used in the fight against the outbreak.

He urged members of the community to take responsibility for their health needs as the government is working to save people from dying due to the disease.

Meanwhile, Mpulungu Acting District Health Director, Joseph Kondolo, said the

Ministry of Health values the support that is being received from various partners as the department alone cannot manage to fight the epidemic.