SANDRA MULENGA
Mkushi
OVER 27, 000 children in Mkushi District are expected to receive essential vitamin A and deworming supplements following support from River of Living Water Missions and Vitamin Angels of the United States.
The donation includes 24, 000 deworming tablets expected to be administered on 12,000 children from one year to six-years.
It also comprises 24, 000 tablets of vitamin A 200,000 IU for 12,000 children and 6,000 tablets of vitamin A 100,000 IU, which will benefit 3,000 children aged between six-months and 11 months.
Speaking during the handover of the supplements, River of Living Water Missions Pastor Chisenga Kunda said the church was committed to contributing to the well-being of communities where it carries out its work.
“Our mission as a church is not only to do the work of God, but also to ensure that the communities where we serve become better,” he said.
He said the partnership with Vitamin Angels is aimed at addressing micronutrient deficiencies in children under five.
Mkushi District Commissioner Jonathan Kapungwe, who witnessed the donation, expressed gratitude to the donors, saying the gesture would go a long way in supplementing Government’s efforts to improve healthcare services.
He said the supplies will also add to the logistics already available in the district.
“We are grateful to the donors for their unwavering support and commitment to improving healthcare in our district. This donation will go a long way in supplementing Government efforts,” he said.
Mkushi district director of health Chipoya Bwalya said improving the health of children is a shared responsibility.
Dr Bwalya said the availability of essential micronutrients such as vitamin A and Albendazole will strengthen the district’s capacity to provide effective preventive and promotive health services.
“By investing in children during their critical early years, we are protecting their health, supporting their development and investing in the future of our community,” he said.
In a vote of thanks, district nutritionist Kakweji Luneta said the donation will help prevent malnutrition, blindness and worm infestation among children.
Ms Luneta said the supplements will also promote the general well-being of children in the community and the district at large.
“We pledge to use these supplies responsibly and ensure that they are properly accounted for,” she said.
