Cholera cases rise to 11, government steps up response

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the number of people infected with cholera in Malawi has risen to 11.

Minister of Health, Madalitso Baloyi has disclosed the figures during a press briefing held on Monday.

Baloyi said the confirmed cases have been recorded in several districts, raising concern over the potential spread of the disease.

According to the Ministry, Kasungu District has recorded the highest number of cases, with five people testing positive for cholera.

Neno District has confirmed three cases, while Lilongwe has reported one case.
Chitipa District has also recorded one confirmed case of cholera.

In Balaka District, one person has tested positive, bringing the total number of confirmed cases nationwide to 11.

Baloyi clarified that other districts, including Mangochi, Rumphi and Karonga, had suspected cases.

However, laboratory test results from these districts came back negative for cholera.

The Ministry said surveillance teams remain on high alert in all districts to quickly detect and respond to any new cases.

Baloyi further revealed that the national cholera response plan requires approximately 3.4 million United States dollars to be fully implemented.

This amount translates to about K5.8 billion at the current exchange rate.

She said government has so far mobilised about K630 million towards the cholera response.

The Ministry is therefore appealing to cooperating partners and the private sector for additional support.

Baloyi emphasized that prevention remains the most effective way to control the outbreak.

She urged Malawians to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap.

The public has also been advised to drink safe and clean water at all times.

Baloyi further encouraged the use of proper sanitation facilities, including hygienic toilets, to prevent contamination.

Health rights campaigner George Jobe has expressed concern over the rising number of cases, saying the situation highlights long-standing gaps in water and sanitation services.

Jobe said cholera outbreaks often expose inequalities in access to clean water, particularly in rural and high-density urban areas.

“Preventing cholera is not just about emergency response; it is about investing in safe water, sanitation and hygiene as a basic human right,” said Jobe.

He urged government and development partners to prioritise long-term solutions alongside immediate outbreak control measures.

Jobe also called for improved community awareness campaigns to ensure people understand how cholera spreads and how it can be prevented.

He noted that timely information and community engagement can significantly reduce infections and save lives.

As the rainy season continues, health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with health workers to prevent further spread of cholera across the country.