Speaking at the handover ceremony at the National Cholera Centre at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka recently, Managing Director, Mr. Oswald Magwenzi commended Health Minister, Hon. Sylvia Masebo and her staff on the great work they were doing to tackle the waterborne disease.

Mr Magwenzi said; “On behalf of Zambia Sugar and on my own behalf, I would like to commend the medical staff and the entire Ministry of Health on the great work you are doing to help combat the Cholera outbreak in the country. Cholera is a disease caused by the drinking of water or ingesting of food contaminated by the bacteria. Therefore, everyone is at risk. That is why this effort by the Government to combat Cholera should be supported by everyone.”

“Hon Minister, combating the disease should continue from two fronts: the prevention side, and the treatment side. We do understand the long-term investment needs in infrastructure development for urban and peri-urban areas to support the prevention efforts. We also commend you, Hon Minister, and the media for the publicity that has continued to promote awareness and actions to take, at the notice of the early signs of the disease. Late care seeking behaviours by those affected by the disease should not be the case today. We encourage individuals to adhere to the guidelines given by your office to seek treatment early.”

Receiving the donation, which included IV giving kits, cannula, saline, disinfectant, chlorine, sugar, and sour milk, Hon. Masebo thanked Zambia Sugar for this thoughtful gesture. She praised Mr. Magwenzi for responding timely and thanked him for such a large donation.

Hon Masebo said, “Zambia Sugar is an all-weather friend and I am not surprised that they have come to donate in our time of need.” She further added that other institutions should emulate Zambia Sugar, who are rendering assistance in Mazabuka, to also render assistance to their local district authorities where they operate from. This will help in containing the Cholera outbreak to Lusaka.”

Zambia Sugar has been collaborating with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development at Mazabuka to specifically refurbish the institution that has been identified as a Treatment Centre for the District. The Company has committed K500,000.00 towards this project.

Zambia Sugar remains committed to working with the Government and ensure that the outbreak is fully contained.