Malawi has been dealt another painful blow after a medical doctor was brutally killed in Blantyre, a tragedy that has left the country’s health and education sectors in mourning.
Dr Favour Atughanile Chomo, a medical officer at the Emergency Centre of Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, was found dead at her residence in Mount Pleasant.
The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear. Southern Region Police spokesperson Beatrice Mikuwa said investigations are underway.
Tributes have since poured in, with Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital Director Professor Patrick Kamalo describing Dr. Chombo as a committed and dependable doctor who served the hospital with dedication.
Dr. Chombo graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Kamuzu University of Health Sciences in March 2024.
Before studying medicine, she was the top-performing student at Maranatha Academy and later returned to serve at the school as a staff member.
In a statement, Maranatha Academy described her as a brilliant, humble and compassionate alumna.
“She was more than an alumna, she was our daughter, our colleague and a friend to many. Her legacy of excellence and kindness will continue to inspire many,” reads the statement.
Medical Doctors Union of Malawi Publicity Secretary Steve Mlangiza said the country already has too few doctors to suffer another loss.
“We have lost a colleague who made the work of caring for patients a little lighter. We already have very few medical doctors in the country, and losing one leaves a huge gap in our service delivery,” said Mlangiza.
He described Dr. Chombo as dedicated, compassionate and approachable, saying the void she leaves behind will not be easily filled.
Her killing comes only months after professional gynaecologist Dr. Victoria Bobe was murdered at her home in Chigumula, Blantyre.
Six suspects are currently before the High Court in Blantyre facing murder charges over Dr. Bobe’s death.
