Minister of Health and Sanitation Madalitso Baloyi has called for renewed commitment to waste management as a critical step toward addressing the country’s persistent sanitation challenges.
Baloyi made the remarks in Lilongwe during the launch of the Implementation Plan for Executive Order Number 2 of 2026, alongside the official handover of waste collection vehicles.
The order, issued by President Arthur Peter Mutharika, mandates the provision and proper maintenance of waste disposal facilities in all public spaces, schools, and workplaces marking a significant policy push toward improved environmental health standards.
Baloyi warned that gaps in sanitation systems continue to fuel outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea, which not only claim lives but also place a heavy burden on the country’s healthcare system.
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Phiri described the donation as both timely and strategic, noting that the government will collaborate with key institutions, including central hospitals, to ensure the efficient and sustainable use of the equipment.
Water for People Country Director Ulemu Chiluzi commended the government for elevating sanitation on the national agenda, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts in achieving long-term impact.
The donation of eight waste collection vehicles, valued at $824,000, by the Global Fund represents a major boost to the country’s waste management capacity. Beyond simply increasing the number of operational vehicles, the contribution is expected to significantly improve the frequency and efficiency of waste collection in major cities.
This intervention is particularly significant as it directly supports the implementation of Executive Order Number 2, helping local councils and health institutions meet mandated sanitation standards. Improved waste management will reduce environmental contamination, limit the spread of waterborne diseases, and contribute to safer, healthier urban communities.
Furthermore, the donation underscores the Global Fund’s broader commitment to strengthening public health systems. By addressing sanitation a key social determinant of health the initiative not only prevents disease outbreaks but also reduces long-term healthcare costs and enhances overall quality of life.
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