First Lady donates to Chipata Hospital, vulnerable groups

First Lady Mutinta Hichilema has donated assorted goods to Chipata Central Hospital and vulnerable groups in Chipata District.

The donated items include 200 blankets, 100 mattresses, 100 bags of mealie meal, 64 hospital beds, 50 cases of cooking oil, 50 cases of sugar and 20 wheelchairs.

Mrs Hichilema said the donation is intended to help address some of the challenges facing the hospital.

“This donation is meant to improve quality health care and support the selfless men and women in the health sector,” she said.

Additionally, community members who mainly comprised the elderly also received 110 sewing machines, 200 bags of mealie meal, 200 blankets and cases of sugar and cooking oil, among other items.

“The machines will enable women and girls in this community to start small businesses and generate income for their families,” she noted,

Mrs Hichilema also emphasized that empowering women benefits entire families and communities.

She added that the initiative aligns with government efforts to promote grassroots empowerment.

The First Lady also thanked partner organisations, including the Organisation of African First Ladies, Lusaka Indian Ladies Association, Zambia National Commercial Bank and the Gladys Mwansa Masabo Foundation for supporting vulnerable groups.

“This sixth donation reflects the Office’s ongoing commitment to supporting government efforts to improve healthcare services, enhance community well-being and empower women and youth,” she said.

The media reports the First Lady has made similar donations across the country, starting with Kasama General Hospital in April, followed by Solwezi General Hospital and Lewanika General Hospital in July.

Others include Monze Mission Hospital in August and Kitwe Teaching Hospital in October.

And Chipata Central Hospital Medical Superintendent Mbinga Mbinga thanked the First Lady, assuring her that the items will uplift the lives of many in the community.

Earlier, during her courtesy call on Paramount Chief Mpezeni of the Ngoni people, the traditional leader commended Mrs. Hichilema for her continued support.

“When someone cares about your health, you forget other issues and are thankful, because health is vital to our lives,” he said.