31.01.2025, Kaoma, Government, through the Ministry of Health, is elated on the strides the country keeps recording in the reduction of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
Minister of Health Hon. ELIJAH MUCHIMA, in a speech read on his behalf by Western Province Permanent Secretary SIMOMO AKAPELWA says the country has recorded a significant reduction of NTDs such as Tracoma and Elephantiasis due to the improved sanitation and water reticulation services that Government has kept improving over the years.
Kaoma District, the host of this year’s National World Neglected Tropical Diseases day, recorded 32.7 per cent of Tracoma cases in 2008 and currently the cases have significantly dropped to 8.3 per cent.
Over the years 195 boreholes have been sunk in Kaoma, which has seen improved access to clean water and sanitation services.
Kaoma District Commissioner SHEBA MUYAMBANGO says the collaboration of Government and various stakeholders such as the traditional leadership in sensitizing the local citizenry has kept yielding positive results in curbing diseases such as Tracoma, Elephantiasis and Bilharzia.
The District Commissioner says Government alone can not record positive strides in eradicating a number of health concerns singlehandedly, hence the need for more partnerships in reaching out to more people, especially in rural areas which keep recording various social and economic developments.
Western Province Health Director, Dr. LOVEDAY MWILA says this year’s World Neglected Tropical Diseases day theme “Unite, Act, Eliminate” is a timely reminder on the role of citizens in promoting the prevention of NTDs through promoting healthy environments, clean water and sanitation services.
Dr. Mwila emphasizes that attaining a good and healthy nation starts by preventing a number of diseases.
Issued by:
Mwakoi Njekwa (Mr.)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Western Province
