Joggers On the Move has handed over a solar power system worth K11 million to Matekenya Health Centre in Traditional Authority (T/A) Msakambewa in Dowa District.
The group’s deputy spokesperson Chisomo Kalumula said they raised the funds during a marathon on August 3 2024 and from members and other well-wishers’ contributions.
He said: “We received a lot of support for this cause. Out of the K11 million, we used K8.4 million to buy and install the solar equipment and the remaining K2.6 million to wire the whole building in readiness for Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi to connect power.”
Dowa district medical officer Ronald Mhango said this is the first time power is connected to the facility.
“This is an advantage because some deliveries will be done right here,” he said.
Mhango said the facility refers about 20 expectant women to the district hospital, 20 kilometres.
Msakambewa East Ward councillor Martin Luka said the facility opened its doors in 2019 but lack of electricity was a challenge such that when guardians brought a patient at night, they were asked to carry candles.
“You know it is not easy to work in darkness let alone treating a patient. The gesture shown by our partner Joggers On the Move is a huge milestone,” he said.
Every year, Joggers On the Move, a group of youthful local athletes, organises a marathon to raise funds for charity, especially in rural areas.
Source: The nation-Steven Pembamoyo-2 September 2024