ZOMBA, MALAWI – Stakeholders in the health sector have commended the Malawi Network of Older Persons’ Organizations (MANEPO) for its efforts in combating Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) among older people.
MANEPO organized a stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Zomba district to discuss its ongoing BMZ project that provides health services to older people, focusing on delivering age-appropriate healthcare, particularly for individuals living with HIV/AIDS and NCDs.
Hastings Chiumia who is the Deputy Director of Medical Rehabilitation Services responsible for non-communicable diseases and mental health conditions in the Ministry of Health highlighted the alignment of MANEPO’s efforts with government initiatives for community disease screening.
He, however, acknowledged significant challenges that hinder the ministry’s commitment to ably assist those suffering from NCDs.
“Key among the challenges is the absence of essential medicines and supplies for NCDs and mental health conditions. Another significant challenge is the inadequate number of service providers specializing in NCD and mental health care within existing clinics,” he lamented.
Esther Nyirenda from the NCD Alliance Malawi mentioned potential collaboration with MANEPO to expand the project’s reach in various communities, looking at the positive impact that the project is having on the elderly.
Beneficiaries reported about the improved health access, functional abilities, and overall quality of life, leading to greater independence for older people.
Mary Kaunda, a beneficiary from Kapichi village commended Community volunteers saying they play a vital role in assessing health conditions and providing support to those in need.
MANEPO’s Executive Director, Andrew Kavala, noted that initial screenings for diseases like hypertension are crucial for identifying older people requiring further care, especially given the increase in NCD prevalence.
“The positive impact is particularly encouraging, and the German government’s support is clearly contributing to the achievement of the project’s objectives,” he stated.
Kavala further expressed that the stakeholders were invited to hear first-hand information from the beneficiaries and service providers to ensure that such services are made available across the country.
The four year project is being implemented in three districts namely; Zomba, Balaka and Machinga and it will run up to December 2026.
NCDs include hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and mental health disorders among others.
Reports indicate that approximately 32% of Malawians are affected by NCDs, highlighting a critical public health issue.
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