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This April, I will be traveling to Kabudula Community Hospital for the third time! In 2024, I went to Kab (as we call it) two times in association with Access Health Africa.
We have learned so much about Kab's capacity and challenges when it comes to maternity and newborn care. I am now in frequent communication with the head of nursing and other hospital staff, receiving updates on challenges to care.
Staff at Kab are doing so much with the little they are provided. Recent challenges include having to work weeks on end without electricity as the grid is failing and the backup generator requires fuel, which is scarce. There is an oxytocin shortage, so they are unable to actively manage the third stage of labor (nevermind medically-indicated inductions). A shortage of bandages threatens the safety of c-section births and wound healing.
The goal of this program is to develop and deliver highly-tailored, targeted aid to a particular community. Scaling up is great, but having worked in international aid and nonprofit public health, I believe most lasting change is small-scale work carried out diligently over time. This requires us all to find our passions and tend to them with great devotion. This is one of mine! And I'm hoping you'll support me in this endeavor, though you don't yet personally have a connection with the Kab community.
We aim to receive more and more supplies via donation, but at this time, will be planning to make up any shortcomings with purchased items. To give you a sense, some items we are specifically looking to acquire are:
- Umbilical cord clamps. Kab staff have been having to use string, which has led to complications. We are not waiting until my trip in April but are actively trying to acquire these in Malawi to get to Kab ASAP.
- Oxytocin. Again, we are currently trying to source in Malawi: not waiting.
- Bandages. Particularly for c-section incisions
- Bassinets. These are to be used in a planned neonatal care area for those who need extra care. At this time, they are staying with their mothers in the postpartum ward and not receiving adequate care.
- Rechargeable mounted lights and likely more rechargeable hand lamps. We are also investigating our ability to provide a small, solar-powered generator to at least provide recharging for such devices.
As you likely know, international aid from the US, which has been essential to massive public health gains in Malawi and elsewhere, is likely being scaled back or cut off entirely. This is an opportunity to make a direct, sizable impact. Please consider donating today!