Growing congestion in flood evacuation camps across Nkhotakota district is fuelling anxieties over sanitation and disease, prompting government officials to reassure communities that cholera will be contained.
Deputy Minister of Health Charles Chilambula issued the assurance on Thursday after inspecting several camps sheltering flood-displaced families.
Chilambula said the Ministry of Health has already deployed preventive measures aimed at averting any potential outbreak, citing overcrowding and limited sanitation facilities as key risks currently being monitored.
"We have observed similar challenges across the camps, including cramped accomodation and inadequate sanitation facilities. But the good thing is that Nkhunga camp will soon be decommissioned as the situation is at least stabilising," he said.
Chilambula added that the government has already put in place measures that will strengthen preventive strategies towards waterborne diseases such as cholera whilst appreciating the district's effort towards the same.
District Commissioner for Nkhotakota Ben Matengeni Tohno, who accompanied the minister, said the district is preparing to relocate households living in areas considered highly vulnerable to flooding.
Tonho said areas such as Kakuyu are always prone to floods and this time around, strict measures will be put in place in ensuring that no one returns to the same place.
"Plans are underway to fast track the relocation of families from flood-prone zones. We have not yet identified the place but surely the process will be done anytime soon," Tohno emphasized.
According to the DC, more than 30,000 people have been affected by the floods, with 14 camps currently accommodating displaced households.
Beyond the camps, Chilambula also visited sanitation facilities at Nkhotakota District Hospital and the main bus depot, urging local authorities to strengthen hygiene measures to safeguard public health.
