FIRST Lady Mutinta Hichilema says donations that she has been making to various communities and institutions countrywide are aimed at restoring hope, promoting dignity and empowering citizens to take part in building a better Zambia.
In her latest gesture, Mrs Hichilema has given Chipata Central Hospital, the highest health facility in Eastern Province, 64 beds, 100 mattresses, 200 blankets, 100 bags of mealie meal, 50 cases of cooking oil, 50 bales of sugar and 20 wheelchairs.
Speaking when she presented the donation yesterday, she said the items aim to enhance patient comfort, improve service delivery, and support the dedicated men and women who continue to serve selflessly in health facilities.
“I am glad to mention that so far, we have donated to hospitals and communities in the following provinces: Northern, North-Western, Western, Southern and Copperbelt,” Mrs Hichilema said.
She said alongside healthcare, she recognises that economic empowerment, particularly for women and youth, remains a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Mrs Hichilema also donated assorted items to the community in Chipata, among them 110 sewing machines, 200 bags of mealie meal, 200 blankets and 200 chitenge wrappers for the elderly and vulnerable, 500 raincoats for boys and girls, 50 bales of sugar and 50 cases of cooking oil.
“These sewing machines are more than just tools; they are a pathway to financial independence. They will enable women and young people in this community to learn skills, start small businesses and generate income for their families,” she said.
The First Lady said when a woman is empowered, she uplifts not only her household but her entire community.
Mrs Hichilema said this initiative aligns with the current Government’s national vision to empower citizens at the grassroots.
She urged beneficiaries of the sewing machines to take ownership and use them responsibly.
Mrs Hichilema further urged them to nurture a culture of care, accountability and stewardship.
She thanked Organisation of African First Ladies for Development, Lusaka Indian Ladies’ Association, Zambia National Commercial Bank and Gladys Mwansa Masabo Foundation for their generosity and collaboration that have helped her reach communities in need.
And Chipata Central Hospital senior medical superintendent Mbinga Mbinga said the donated beds and mattresses will provide comfort to patients at the facility.
Eastern Province Minister Peter Phiri commended the First Lady for her gesture, which will significantly enhance service delivery at Chipata Central Hospital and strengthen the province’s capacity to provide quality, dignified and accessible healthcare.
Source: Zambia Daily Mail