Minister of Health Roma Chilengi has called on private sector companies to invest in the upgrade of mental health facilities to promote quality health service delivery.
The call follows Finsbury Reinsurance Limited’s contribution of more than K400,000 towards the refurbishment of B Ward at Chainama Hills Hospital.
Professor Chilengi says corporate social responsibility initiatives are important in complementing government efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and improve conditions for patients and healthcare workers.
He made the remarks during the official handover of the refurbished B Ward at Chainama Hills Hospital, undertaken by Finsbury Reinsurance Limited under its corporate social responsibility programme.
Professor Chilengi said the contribution demonstrated how Zambian companies could respond to community needs and create a lasting social impact beyond their core business operations.
He challenged other companies to emulate Finsbury Reinsurance Limited, saying increased private sector participation could significantly improve conditions at the mental health institution.
He said the Government values partnerships with the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders in advancing the country’s development agenda.
Professor Chilengi also commended the hospital’s management and staff for continuing to care for patients under difficult working conditions.
Speaking at the same event, Finsbury Reinsurance Limited Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Webster Twaambo, said the company had spent more than K400,000 on items and renovation works at the hospital.
Dr Twaambo said the contribution included 20 metal beds, 10 benches, replacement of ceiling boards in the dining area, roofing of a shelter, repairs to the water reticulation system and repainting of the ward.
He explained that the support was intended to improve the safety, comfort and dignity of patients, healthcare workers and visitors at the institution.
Dr Twaambo highlighted that the contribution marked the beginning of the company’s commitment to supporting Chainama Hills Hospital and called on other institutions to contribute towards improving mental health services.
Meanwhile, Chainama Hills Hospital Senior Medical Superintendent, Margaret Chibowa, thanked Finsbury Reinsurance Limited for selecting the institution as a beneficiary of its corporate social responsibility initiative.
Dr Chibowa said the contribution would help create a better environment for patients and demonstrate that healthcare workers’ efforts are recognised and appreciated by the wider community.
And Chainama Hills Hospital Principal Hospital Administrator, Cecilia Chisaka, expressed gratitude to the Minister of Health for officiating at the handover ceremony, saying his presence demonstrated the Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery.
She added that the refurbishment of B Ward was a meaningful investment in the well-being, dignity, safety and comfort of patients, and thanked Finsbury Reinsurance Limited for its contribution towards improving the hospital’s facilities.
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