This year Malawi commemorated the global hand-washing day by having a national event that took place on 26th of October, 2023 at Mtandire in Lilongwe under the theme “Clean Hands are Within Reach.” Global Hand-Washing Day is a global advocacy day dedicated to increasing understanding on awareness and the importance of hand-washing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives. It is commemorated every year on 15th October but Malawi commemorated it today.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Honourable Abida Sidik Mia said hand hygiene is often overlooked. She said while COVID- 19 and Cholera have brought unprecedented attention to the importance of hand hygiene, Systems must become more resilient to sustainba culture of hand hygiene and prevent future outbreaks from occurring.
“Sustainable Development Goal 6 includes striving towards universal hand hygiene by 2030. We must take collective action to accelerate progress for hand hygiene. Investment in hand hygiene infrastructure and products must be accelerated in homes, schools, healthcare settings and public places” said the Mia
The Ministry also donated hand washing basins and soap to the office of the PEA of the areas, to be distributed to surrounding schools.
The event attracted Government Officials, Representatives from different Organizations in the WASH sector, Traditional Leaders, Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. George Zulu, Councillors, Members of the community and the Media among others.
