Scottish Minister for International Development, Neil Gray has approved a request from UNICEF to pivot the £236,137, previously allocated to for the purchase and supply of an Oxygen Generating Plant, to Health Systems Strengthening activities, as requested by officials within’ the Ministry of Health. Under this proposal UNICEF Malawi will use these funds for Health Systems Strengthening, purchasing urgently needed supplies that are both relevant for the ongoing Covid-19 response and Cholera outbreak.
The Scottish Government understands Cholera is the greatest immediate threat to lives in Malawi at present, and whilst our funding was specifically for the Covid-19 response, the supplies to be purchased (oral rehydration salts, IV fluids, Antibiotics, Cannulas, Water purification tablets and WASH supplies) are beneficial to the response of both Covid-19 and Cholera
International Development Minister Neil Gray said:
“Malawi is experiencing its worst cholera outbreak since 2002. It is currently the greatest immediate threat to people in Malawi with more than 700 lives tragically lost since the outbreak began in March 2022.
“We are working closely with the Government of Malawi and UNICEF to ensure much needed medical equipment is procured and available for use as soon as possible. As the country enters the rainy season, it is increasingly likely that more flooding will could occur and therefore limit access to UNICEF’s WASH programme and further spread the disease.
“Scotland is a good global citizen and we have long had close ties and relationships with Malawi. We are committed to supporting those who need it most, particularly during this especially difficult time for the people of Malawi.”