Malawi Schools Reopen After Cholera Outbreak

Schools in Malawi have reopened and learning in primary and secondary schools has resumed in two major cities.

The resumption comes after a cholera outbreak that killed hundreds of people.

Report says schools in the capital, Lilongwe, and the commercial hub, Blantyre, had remained closed for at least two weeks after the Christmas holidays.

The cholera outbreak began in March last year and has killed more than 750 people.

While infections are still high in Lilongwe and Blantyre.

Health Minister, Khumbize Chiponda who was optimistic said schools now have access to safe water and improved sanitation facilities, which will go a long way in reducing infections reported in schools.

Meanwhile, Malawi is among 31 countries globally hit by cholera.

Last week, the government asked for international assistance as it was running low on medical supplies.

The widespread cases of cholera in the country resulted from the aftermath of tropical storm Ana and cyclone Gombe which caused extensive flooding last year and destroyed the country’s water and sanitation systems.

BBC/Christopher Ojilere