By Linda Kwanjana
National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has given K12 million to the Rotary Club of Blantyre to support healthcare outreach services aimed at improving access to medical care for rural and underserved communities.
The support will benefit the Zonsezi Outreach Clinic in Madziabango, which has now expanded to include two additional outreach clinics at Kapodwa and Masuku.
The clinics operate under the Anzathu Maternity Clinic managed by Professor Emily Chirwa of Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS).
Speaking during the cheque presentation on Friday, NBM plc Account Relationship Manager, Bertha Malikula said the contribution reflects the Bank’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services and supporting communities that struggle to access medical facilities.
“We are proud to contribute K12 million towards this important initiative that supports essential healthcare services. Access to healthcare remains a major challenge for many communities, particularly those in remote areas,” said Malikula.
She said the Bank views its role as going beyond financial services and sees itself as a partner in national and community development, adding that the partnership through the Rotary grant enables the bank to make a direct and meaningful contribution to improving access to healthcare services.
Malikula added that outreach clinics play a crucial role in bringing medical services closer to people who would otherwise have to travel long distances to receive treatment.
Blantyre Rotary Club President, Patricia Khomani, welcomed the donation, describing it as a significant boost to the outreach programme.
“We are very grateful to National Bank of Malawi plc for this donation. The funds will support the outreach clinics for a period of 12 months and will mainly be used to procure essential medicines, including malaria treatment drugs, antibiotics and other critical medical supplies.”
“People travel more than five kilometres to access healthcare services at Madziabango Health Centre, but this outreach clinic makes it easier because a medical team travels with medicines to communities that need help,” said Khomani.
