Kaweche calls for theatre construction at Mapale Health Centre

Member of Parliament for Mzuzu South East, William Kaweche, has appealed to the Minister of Health and Sanitation to prioritize the construction of a theatre at Mapale Urban Health Centre to improve access to surgical services.

Kaweche made the appeal on Tuesday in Parliament during a question-and-answer session with Minister of Health and Sanitation, Madalitso Kambauwa-Baloyi.

The legislator said the absence of a theatre at Mapale Health Centre has forced many patients to seek surgical treatment at Mzuzu Central Hospital, contributing to congestion at the referral facility.

He noted that a fully equipped theatre at Mapale would enable the health centre to perform surgical procedures locally, reducing referrals and easing pressure on Mzuzu Central Hospital.

Kaweche further said the facility serves communities in Masasa, Chiputula, Songwe, Chiwanja, Chiwavwi, Hilltop, Gesha, Kaboko, Katete and parts of Mchengautuba, arguing that residents should not be forced to travel long distances to access essential surgical care.

He also expressed concern that some patients lose their lives while being transferred to Mzuzu Central Hospital due to delays associated with the journey.

The MP said he is confident the government will address the challenge, describing it as responsive to the needs of the people.

“The government listens to the concerns of citizens. I am encouraged by the Minister’s assurance that this service will be delivered,” said Kaweche.

Responding to the concerns, Minister of Health and Sanitation Madalitso Kambauwa-Baloyi acknowledged the challenges facing Mapale Urban Health Centre and assured Parliament that the ministry will work towards providing a theatre at the facility.

The current sitting of Parliament, which began on Monday in Lilongwe, is expected to run for three weeks.