Efforts to improve maternal and neonatal health services in Kasungu District have received a major boost following a K20 million donation that will support upgrades in medical equipment and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities.
The donation comes as part of this year’s Mother’s Fun Run initiative by Nation Publications Limited (NPL), with the support of National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc, aimed at enhancing maternal and neonatal healthcare delivery in Kasungu District Hospital and surrounding health centres.
Speaking during the cheque presentation ceremony in Blantyre on Thursday, Ivy Mshali, Customs Road Service Centre Manager at NBM plc, said the bank’s support goes beyond financial assistance, describing it as a gesture of shared responsibility in improving maternal healthcare.
“These facilities are often the first and only line of care for thousands of expectant mothers and newborns. We are standing alongside partners to ensure that hospitals are equipped, safe, and ready to serve,” said Mshali.
She added that the contribution comes at a crucial time when Kasungu District Hospital handles over 200 deliveries per week, despite challenges such as limited beds, incubators, and sterilization equipment.
“These are not just numbers; they are stories of mothers, families, and communities. We are not only improving healthcare infrastructure but also restoring hope to many women in rural areas who often give birth under unsafe and unhygienic conditions,” she said.
Mshali further praised the Mother’s Fun Run initiative, describing it as more than just a campaign but a movement that unites people for a life-saving cause.
Receiving the donation on behalf of NPL, Nation on Sunday Editor Emmanuel Luciano expressed gratitude to NBM plc for what he called a timely and impactful contribution.
“We are very grateful to NBM plc. This is a tremendous contribution — K20 million is a lot of money and will make a significant difference in the fight against maternal and neonatal deaths. It will go a long way in promoting safe motherhood and improving maternal health outcomes in Kasungu,” said Luciano.
The Mother’s Fun Run continues to rally corporate partners and individuals to equip hospitals and health centres with essential medical supplies, ensuring safer deliveries and better healthcare for mothers and babies across Malawi.
