MALGA Asks Government to Revise Drug and Hospital Rehabilitation Budget

Health Services Management Network (HESNET) a program network that operates under Malawi Local Government Association (MALGA) has asked the government to consider revising the drug and hospital rehabilitation budget allocations to public hospitals to mitigate stock shortages and enhance proficiency.

Chairperson for the Health Services Managers Network (HESNET), Henry Chibowa, made the request during HESNET’s second annual conference in Blantyre.

Chibowa expressed surprise at the government’s decision to reduce drug and hospital rehabilitation budget allocations over the years.

He said the reduction has forced hospitals to divert funds from other essential activities to support these programs.

“Actually, it is very unfortunate that the budget for these activities has continuously been slashed instead of being increased.

“Considering the growing number of patients seeking medical drugs at hospitals, it is essential to revise the budget allocations to cater to the demands,” he said.

Chibowa also noted that inadequate funding for drug and hospital rehabilitation has led to a supply chain monopoly.

He said this has resulted in suppliers fixing high prices and supplying counterfeit materials.

According to Chibowa, the government currently allocates 10% of the drug budget and 17% for hospital rehabilitation activities to public hospitals.

“This is inadequate, considering the current high costs of essentials. Therefore, we propose at least a 50% increase in drug allocation and a 20% increase in hospital rehabilitation activities,” he said.

In a separate interview, MALGA Executive Director Hadrod Mkandawire said the network is developing a policy paper to align with the government’s vision for decentralization programs.

Deputy Minister of Health Noel Chimpeni acknowledged the concerns raised and promised that the government would explore possible solutions.

Under the theme “Leading in times of uncertainty: The making of a resilient health system” the second annual confere was funded by Actionaid,UNICEF , European Union among others partners.and took place from 18 to 19 March 2025.