As the Catholic Church in Malawi celebrates the 125th anniversary of its Permanent Establishment, Nzama Health Centre in Ntcheu District, under the Diocese of Dedza, stands as a powerful symbol of the Church’s enduring commitment to bringing Christ’s healing love to vulnerable communities.
Established in 1904, three years after the establishment of St. Mary’s Nzama Parish, the health centre has served generations of families living in remote areas along the Malawi-Mozambique border. Today, it remains a lifeline for thousands of people with limited access to healthcare services.
Speaking to MCCB Communications, the Hospital In-Charge, Sister Martha Spoon, SBVM, said the facility serves a catchment population of approximately 9,000 people, with nearly 75 per cent of patients travelling from neighbouring Mozambique in search of medical care.
A major milestone in the centre’s history came in 2000 when the Daughters of Wisdom Congregation constructed a maternity wing during celebrations marking 100 years of the Catholic Church’s presence in Malawi.
The maternity unit continues to serve hundreds of mothers and newborns, reflecting the Church’s commitment to protecting life and promoting human dignity.
Despite its vital role, the health centre faces significant challenges that threaten its ability to meet growing healthcare needs.
Many of the facility’s buildings have deteriorated over time and require urgent rehabilitation to provide a safe and dignified environment for patients and healthcare workers.
Among the most pressing needs is an ambulance for emergency referrals. Currently, the facility depends on vehicles from the District Health Office, which are often unavailable when emergencies arise.
“The absence of an ambulance can result in critical delays for expectant mothers experiencing complications, accident victims and patients requiring urgent specialist treatment,” Sr. Spoon explained.
She said a dedicated ambulance would significantly improve emergency response services and help save lives.
The facility is also struggling with the rising cost of medicines, making it increasingly difficult to maintain adequate stocks of essential drugs for the communities it serves.
Support towards the procurement of an ambulance, rehabilitation of infrastructure and the purchase of essential medicines would have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of thousands of people who rely on this mission health facility each year.
For more information or to support the facility, contact the Hospital In-Charge:
Email: srmarthasp@gmail.com
— MCCB Communications
Photo Credit: Brenard Mwanza