People living in Mgoza, in Traditional Authority Khosolo in Mzimba, will no longer have to travel long distances to access medical care. A new health post, constructed at a cost of K122 million, has been officially handed over to the Mzimba District Health Office by African Parks.
For many years, families in the area walked 24 kilometres to reach Mukoka Health Centre, making it difficult for pregnant women, children, and the ill to receive timely treatment.
The new facility is expected to address these long-standing challenges.
Speaking during the handover ceremony on Friday, African Parks official David Nangoma said the organisation aims to improve community wellbeing while also supporting conservation initiatives.
“Healthy communities are better able to protect natural resources. This health post is an investment in both people and the environment,” Nangoma said.
Mzimba Director of Health and Social Services, Prince Chirwa, said the facility will help reduce preventable illnesses and save lives.
“No one should have to travel more than eight kilometres to access health services, yet people here were walking three times that distance. We thank African Parks for supporting government efforts,” he said.
Council Chairperson Joel Theu also commended the initiative, noting that empowering communities promotes stronger cooperation in wildlife protection and local development.
The new health post will provide outpatient services, maternal care, and under-five clinics. It is expected to ease pressure on existing health centres and encourage residents to seek medical attention earlier.
