Malawi Red Cross Society’s ICBH Project Phases Out in Dowa

The Malawi Red Cross Society’s Integrated Community-Based Health Project (ICBHP), implemented in the areas of Traditional Authorities (T/As) Chiwere, Nkukula, and Msakambewa, is set to phase out in Dowa District by the end of January 2025.
Launched in 2022, the project aimed to improve the health and hygiene of communities in these areas through enhanced access to health and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services by 2034. Over its implementation period, the initiative has significantly contributed to positive changes in hygiene and nutrition practices among the targeted population of 348,941 people, including pregnant women and children under five years old.
The project focused on Health and Nutrition, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, and capacity building. It trained 150 volunteers in key health and WASH topics and organized community-based activities such as cooking demonstrations and food displays using locally available resources.
According to the organization’s District Coordinator for Dowa, Maureen Mwakanema, the project facilitated the drilling and rehabilitation of boreholes, the training of Area Mechanics, and the establishment of Water Point Committees. It also supported volunteer household visits in areas like Kanyumbu, Mazulungwi, Chalunda, and Ngubane within the targeted T/As.
Notable achievements include:
- Communities providing meals for clinic staff.
- Volunteers collaborating with Village Health Committees and Community Health Action Groups.
- Construction of a clinic shelter and latrines at Mkanthama in Senior Chief Msakambewa’s area.
- Care Groups conducting independent cooking demonstrations.
- Water Point Committees signing agreements with Area Mechanics for major borehole repairs.
Despite its successes, the project faced several challenges, including:
- Devaluation of the local currency.
- Drug shortages at Dowa District Hospital.
- Difficult topography, which affected borehole drilling.
- Prolonged rains that delayed latrine construction.
Mwakanema emphasized that the project has demonstrated the importance of coordination for community engagement, ownership, and sustainability.
Fanny Muula, Dowa District Council’s Water Development Officer, commended the project’s positive impact and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to continuing collaboration with the Malawi Red Cross Society to sustain these gains for the benefit of the people in Dowa