The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Doctors with Africa CUAMM, has engaged hospital stakeholders to improve healthcare waste management at Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH) and Ola During Children’s Hospital (ODCH).
The engagement, held at the ODCH Conference Hall on 19 October 2026, brought together hospital management teams, technical assistance personnel and public health superintendents to identify challenges and discuss practical measures to ensure the safe handling and disposal of healthcare waste.
The meeting was facilitated through the Ministry’s Directorate of Hospital and Ambulance Services, Directorate of Environmental Health and Climate, and Infection Prevention and Control Programme, with a focus on improving waste segregation, collection, temporary storage and final disposal.
Participants highlighted the need to separate general waste from infectious materials, sharps and other hazardous waste at the point of generation. They also stressed the importance of providing adequate colour-coded bins, waste liners, puncture-resistant safety boxes and personal protective equipment to reduce occupational hazards and protect healthcare workers, patients and surrounding communities.
The discussions further addressed gaps in waste disposal infrastructure, including incineration capacity, temporary storage facilities and waste collection arrangements. Participants called for regular training and supervision of healthcare workers, cleaners and waste handlers, alongside clearer responsibilities and stronger accountability for cleaning and waste collection contractors.
As part of the engagement, Ministry of Health officials and CUAMM representatives inspected the autoclaves at PCMH. The inspection confirmed that the contractor had rectified the reported fault and that the equipment was functioning properly at the time of the visit.
Participants also emphasised the need to maintain clean hospital compounds, manage plastic litter effectively and ensure the proper use of designated waste bins. They noted that sustained monitoring and compliance with established waste management procedures are essential to improving hygiene and preventing infections in healthcare facilities.
The engagement concluded with a call for coordinated follow-up actions, including defined responsibilities, realistic timelines for infrastructure improvements, strengthened staff training and regular monitoring of waste segregation and disposal practices.
Through its collaboration with CUAMM and hospital management teams, the Ministry of Health aims to promote safer and cleaner healthcare environments at PCMH and ODCH, strengthening infection prevention and control, patient safety, occupational health and environmental protection.
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