Enforce by-laws to curb ‘Cholera Outbreak’, Zambian Government directs local authorities
By DERRICK SINJELA and SAEED SIMON BANDA
THE Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) has directed all Local Authorities countrywide to enforce all the necessary laws and By-Laws to ban the sale of ready-to-eat foodstuff on the streets to curb the outbreak of Cholera.
MLGRD Permanent Secretary (Administration) Mr. Maambo Haamaundu stated that Local Authorities should further heighten inspection of foodstuff sold in all restaurants, markets and in open areas to ensure compliance to public health guidelines in an effort to curb further spread of Cholera.
This is in view of some Districts that include Vubwi in Eastern Province and Mwansabombwe in Luapula province, reporting cases of cholera since Thursday, 26th January, 2023.
“We are better off taking all necessary precautionary measures now. In this regard, Local Authorities have been directed to enforce laws and By-Laws and heighten awareness in markets, bus stations and communities to help curb any further outbreak of Cholera,” Haamaundu stated read a Sunday, 19th February, 2023 Press Statement issued by Chila Namaiko (Mr) Public Relations Officer (PRO) Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
The Permanent Secretary Administration stated that, any decisions from Local Authorities to curb Cholera should be effectively communicated to shop owners, bar operators, marketeers, bus drivers, street vendors and community members, who will be expected to comply with all preventive measures.
Haamaundu equally appealed to every individual generally keep their surroundings clean and observe basic hygiene practices such as keeping environments clean, regular washing of hands with soap and clean water after using the toilet, as well as boiling or chlorinating water for drinking.
Haamaundu stated that Local Authorities should collaborate with the Ministry of Health to heighten cholera surveillance in communities for enhanced detection of suspected cases.
MLGRD Permanent Secretary (Administration) Mr. Maambo Haamaundu (Left) with Lusaka Mayor Chilando Nakalima Chitangala (Right).
