Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Times News
Published on 2024-03-22 06:38:42
The unavailability of a life-saving remedy is a harsh reality for many individuals suffering from kidney problems in Malawi. The limited access to dialysis machines forces these individuals to endure long queues in the hope of finding relief. One such individual is Khozgya Ubale Mwale, a 52-year-old woman who once led a vibrant life filled with music, travel, and business. In 2020, Mwale’s life took a drastic turn when she was diagnosed with stage-five kidney failure while visiting Zambia. She immediately began dialysis, a crucial treatment that helps remove toxins from the body in the absence of functioning kidneys.
Despite the necessity of regular dialysis treatments, Mwale faced challenges accessing a machine in her hometown of Chilumba, leading her to relocate to Lilongwe, over 400 kilometers away. The cost of living in the capital city was a significant burden for Mwale, who had to cover expenses such as housing and transportation while undergoing treatment. The financial strain and disruption to her daily life left her yearning for the sense of normalcy she once enjoyed in her community.
Mwale’s situation is not unique, as many individuals in Malawi struggle with kidney failure without adequate access to dialysis machines. The Kidney Clinic at Kamuzu Central Hospital currently serves around 390 patients, but only 70 have access to the limited number of available machines. The lack of resources and investment in healthcare has resulted in a healthcare system that is unable to meet the needs of patients with kidney failure.
Samuel Kamwanje, founder of the Kidney Foundation, highlights the dire situation faced by patients waiting for dialysis and emphasizes the importance of acquiring more machines to save lives. Despite potential solutions such as free machine procurement from suppliers, the government’s failure to prioritize healthcare funding has contributed to continued shortages and patient suffering.
Efforts to address the shortage include President Lazarus Chakwera’s directive to establish a dialysis center in northern Malawi, yet progress has been slow, leaving patients like Angela Watson waiting for relief. Watson, a former farmer who relocated to Lilongwe for dialysis treatment, eagerly anticipates the installation of machines at Mzuzu Central Hospital. Her hope for a more convenient treatment option reflects the shared longing of many individuals affected by kidney failure in Malawi.
In conclusion, the lack of access to dialysis machines in Malawi highlights the urgent need for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure and resources. As patients continue to suffer and wait for life-saving treatments, it is essential for policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize the well-being of individuals with kidney problems and address the systemic challenges that hinder their access to essential care.
Read the original article on The Times
