Print this page

Malawi Red Cross Society Advises Stakeholders to Enforce Strict COVID-19 Preventive Measures in Local Markets

Mzuzu Market; business is as usual despite the Covid-19 pandemic Mzuzu Market; business is as usual despite the Covid-19 pandemic Photo by Towera Kumwenda

Malawi Red Cross Society has implored both government and Non-Governmental Organizations to take an extra gear in the implementation of strict measures that will help prevent the spread of COVID 19 in the country’s overcrowded markets.

Communications and Humanitarian Diplomacy Specialist at the Malawi Red Cross Society Felix notes that while other measures are being adhered to, social distancing is a challenge especially in local markets.

 "We have noted that there are several gaps that need filling so we are engaging communities to improve adherence to preventative measures while at the same time getting feedback to help us in formulating our messages. People have received the information, what is lacking is enforcement, "stressed Washon.

Osborn Kumwenda is the Secretary for Area1B Luwinga Market in Mzuzu. He is of the view that stakeholders should not relent in teaching the communities noting that a larger percentage is ignorant of the pandemic. 

"We have learned something new today. Most of us just hear it on the radio that there is Coronavirus, but know less of the pandemic. At least we know something now,” said Kumwenda.

Meanwhile, the Malawi Red Cross Society is using radio jingles and programs to help spread COVID-19 messages to a wider audience, with almost 24 million kwacha funding from the European Union ECHO project which commenced in April this year and is worth approximately 24 million kwacha. 

Over 3000 COVID-19 cases and over 70 deaths have been registered in the country so far.

 

Read 2890 times
Login to post comments