Bwaila Hospital Receives K6 Million Support from SKC Foundation

The Saulos Klaus Chilima (SKC) Foundation recently donated items worth K6 million to support the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Bwaila Hospital in Lilongwe. The donation aligns with World Prematurity Day (17 November), a global day dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges faced by preterm babies and their families.

According to Joshua Valera, a trustee of the SKC Foundation, the contribution followed a request from the hospital highlighting critical shortages in the NICU. He said the foundation wanted to respond meaningfully and acknowledge the dedication of healthcare workers who care for premature infants every day. Valera praised the unit’s doctors, nurses, and caregivers for their compassion and unwavering commitment to saving lives.

He further emphasized the Foundation’s mission to support life-enhancing initiatives and encouraged other partners to join efforts to help the government address essential social needs. Valera added that their work continues to honor the legacy of the late Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima.

The donation included essential items such as cooking oil, soya pieces, soap, and mops.

Moneko Zoto, the Senior Nursing and Midwifery Officer at Bwaila Hospital, expressed deep gratitude for the timely support. She revealed that the NICU cares for about 200 preterm babies each month, placing immense pressure on limited resources. Zoto also noted that some mothers remain in the hospital for up to two months until their babies reach safe discharge weights.

Despite ongoing resource challenges, the hospital has made significant progress. The neonatal mortality rate dropped from 12% in 2023 to 7% in 2024. Zoto further highlighted that infections during pregnancy remain a major contributor to preterm births.

The SKC Foundation continues to champion initiatives in healthcare, education, social welfare, and economic empowerment, with a strong focus on underserved communities.

Sources: MBC Digital and Malawi Freedom Network