Copperbelt Province Health Director, Charles Mwinuna, has commended Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Zambia for its continued initiative of providing free healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive health to communities.
Speaking during the Wellness Open Day at New Masala Clinic in Ndola, Dr Mwinuna said the free health care services help empower people to manage their health and reduce stigma around Sexual Transmitted Infections and HIV.
The media reports that Dr Mwinuna noted that government is committed to working closely with organisations like AHF Zambia to strengthen health service delivery and ensure that health facilities both public and private remain accessible and affordable according to the needs of people.
He also expressed gratitude for the continued partnership between AHF Zambia and the Ministry of Health, stating that through working together, a healthier, stronger and more informed Zambia will be built.
Dr Mwinuna further stated that President Hakainde Hichilema is always advocating for universal health coverage where everyone regardless of background is able to access health care services.
He stressed the need for members of the public to take full advantage of the free services being offered, noting that health is indeed wealth and prevention is always better than cure.
Dr Mwinuna also observed that the establishment and operation of the Wellness Clinic at New Masala Clinic was an example of how partnerships between government and civil society could bring real and tangible health benefits to the communities.
“The Ministry of Health recognises that sexual and reproductive health is a cornerstone of individual and community wellbeing,” he said.
AID Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Country Director, Martin Matabishi, stated that the foundation has about three Well Clinics that provide free quality health services to diseases that are transmitted sexually.
Mr Matabishi noted that the clinics include Lusingu Clinic along Chachacha Road in Lusaka’s Town Center, Chifundo Clinic also in Lusaka’s Chaisa area and New Masala Clinic in Ndola.
He indicated that the named facilities offer free, high-quality and confidential services to the people for the management of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevention of HIV.
Mr Matabashi explained that the aim of his organisation is to ensure that every person regardless of their background has equal access to quality healthcare services.
He added that the organisation plans on setting up a standalone health facility at New Masala Clinic which will provide full services to the people.
And, Skyways Ward Councillor, Febian Mwanza, thanked AID Healthcare Foundation for offering free services to the people of Masala and Ndola at large.
Mr Mwanza said people will make use of the available services and take good care of the facility.
