BE PRO-ACTIVE TO STOP CHOLERA, COUNCILS TOLD

By MILLENNIUM REPORTER

A DEVELOPMENT activist Wesley Miyanda has cautioned local authorities against being reactive in handling diseases commonly associated with the rainy season.
Mr. Miyanda emphasised the importance of proactive planning to prevent cholera outbreaks, especially in Lusaka and other high-risk areas that have historically served as epicentres of the disease.
He said the recurring pattern of cholera cases in the country reflects a lack of preparedness by councils, which often wait until outbreaks occur before taking action.
“The failure by local authorities to plan ahead is what leads to repeated cholera outbreaks during the rainy season.
Councils must mobilise resources and begin preventive measures now rather than wait for a crisis,” Mr. Miyanda said.
He urged councils to prioritise drainage system maintenance, solid waste management, and public health education campaigns to curb the spread of waterborne diseases.
Mr. Miyanda’s remarks come amid growing public concern about the country’s readiness to prevent future cholera outbreaks, with health experts warning that climate change and poor sanitation continue to heighten risks in urban and peri-urban areas.
He reiterated that proactive health management not only saves lives but also reduces the financial burden on both government and households once an outbreak occurs.
“Prevention is far more effective and less costly than emergency response. The time to act is now,” Mr. Miyanda added.