A Kawambwa based health practitioner says the completion of a new maternity annex at Munkanta Rural Health Centre under the Constituency Development Funds (CDF), has significantly reduced congestion and eased the referral strain on Kawambwa District Hospital from the rural facility.
In an interview, Munkanta Rural Health Centre In-charge Jacob Banda said the CDF funded new maternity annex has transformed maternal healthcare access at the community level.
Mr Banda says the facility now allows more expectant mothers from the catchment area to deliver safely, closer to home, rather than being referred to the often-overstretched district hospital.
“Before the completion of this maternity annex, most expectant mothers from this area were referred to Kawambwa District Hospital, which increased congestion and overstretched the available facilities,” Mr Banda explained.
“The annex has helped decentralise maternal services and decongest the district hospital,” he said.
He added that the wing has improved access to crucial antenatal and postnatal care, while cutting down the distance pregnant women must travel for services.
“Women can now access maternity services closer to their homes. This has reduced delays in seeking care and contributed to improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes,” Mr Banda said.
Kawambwa District Administration Officer James Nsama commended the strategic use of CDF to address critical health sector challenges.
“This project is a clear demonstration of how CDF is improving the lives of our people. Strengthening health facilities at community level helps reduce pressure on the district hospital and improves service delivery,” Mr Nsama stated.
Mr Nsama said the Munkanta Maternity Annex is among several health infrastructure projects being undertaken in Kawambwa District under the CDF, aimed at improving access to quality healthcare and supporting national efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.
