Chief Lubunda of the Lunda people of Mwense district has appealed to the Patriotic Front Government to urgently build a proper maternity wing at the health post in his chiefdom.
Chief Lubunda said there was no privacy at the health post as it was overcrowded with patients of various ailments and those in labour were being subjected to public ridicule.
The Chief made the appeal when newly appointed Luapula Province Permanent Secretary, Anna Mwitwa, paid a courtesy call on him at his palace.
He said mothers in labour lose dignity and the situation needed quick remedial measures.
The Permanent Secretary took time to see for herself the limited space at the health post and the congestion that could result when patients came in numbers to seek medical services.
The chief expressed concern that there was only one room which was used as an admission ward for both male and female patients.
He expressed fear that some men could be crafty and pretend to be sick and just wake up in the night and pounce on the unsuspecting female patient for criminal activities which could lead to other issues.
Chief Lubunnda said there was need to build additional infrastructure so that patients could receive their medical care and attention in a dignified manner.
And newly appointed Luapula Province Permanent Secretary, Anna Mwitwa, agreed with the Chief that there was need to look at additional infrastructure for the clinic so that patients could receive medical
care with dignity.
ZANIS
Inhuman situation…
Chief, don’t cry or appeal for it, demand for it! It’s your right and the PF promised it to you.Â