By Wellington Sibale
Ministry of Health’s Quality Management Department on Thursday awarded Neno District Health Office a three-star quality rating, a rare achievement among district health facilities in Malawi, and a reflection of adherence to internationally recognised health standards.
The awarding ceremony took place at Neno Community Hall where District Medical Officer, Dr. Albert Chafunya, described the rating as a major milestone in the district’s pursuit of quality healthcare delivery.
“In Malawi, very few districts have managed to attain a three-star rating. This accolade is highly encouraging as it demonstrates that, as a district, we are performing well in terms of quality healthcare provision,” added Chafunya.
He attributed the achievement to strong leadership under the Director of Health Services, Dr. Enoch Ndarama and staff dedication across the district.
“Our strength as a district lies in hard work. We have a very committed team and strong leadership,” he said, adding that the district was aiming to attain an even higher rating next year.
He also acknowledged Partners In Health role in the health sector, describing the organisation as a trusted partner, saying its support had always been instrumental in the district’s success.
Hospital Advisory Committee Chairperson, Leonard Mphidza, expressed satisfaction with the progress made, observing that the district improved from a one-star rating to the three-star status.
“We were at one star, and reaching three stars is a very big achievement. It shows what can be accomplished when hospital management and the community work together,” added Mphidza.However, he acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly shortages of essential drugs, although he noted that Partners In Health continues to assist in bridging gaps in primary healthcare supplies.
Neno District Council Principal Human Resource Officer, Samuel Tanaka, also hailed the achievement, saying it was uncommon for hospitals in Malawi to attain such a rating.
“Getting a three-star rating is a major achievement, but my appeal is that we should not become complacent. we must raise our standards further so that we achieve even more in the next assessment,” added Tanaka.
The event also recognised outstanding performance by individual health facilities and departments.
Zalewa Health Centre was named Best Outpatient Department, while Dambe and Ligowe Health Centers were recognised for their excellence in Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) service provision. Luwani Health Centre was awarded Best Service Health and Results Framework (SHARF) Performer; and Best Overall Health Centre.
Lisungwi Community Hospital and the Maternity Department at Neno District Hospital were recognised for excellence in antenatal care services, while the Laboratory Department was named the best-performing department in service delivery and quality compliance.
The Paediatrics Department was recognised as the most improved.
The quality rating is based on international standards used globally to assess the performance and service delivery of health facilities.
