The Ministry of Labour has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing technical skills development in Malawi, with the aim of strengthening collaboration with other countries in the Southern African region.
Speaking in Lilongwe during a certificate award ceremony for six trainees from Botswana, Secretary for Labour, Nwazi Mnthambala, said the ministry is dedicated to enhancing technical expertise that can be shared across member states of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The six participants completed specialized training in the installation and maintenance of pharmaceutical cold storage systems—an area considered critical in safeguarding medical supplies.
Mnthambala noted that many countries in Southern Africa continue to incur significant financial losses due to inadequate storage facilities for medicines.
He said improper storage conditions often lead to the deterioration of drugs, undermining efforts to deliver effective healthcare services.
The Principal of Lilongwe Technical College, Suzthika Mvalo, said the institution remains committed to advancing technical and vocational education in line with Malawi’s development goals.
Mvalo made the remarks as the college hosted the six Botswana nationals who underwent training in the design and management of medical storage systems.
“We are pleased to provide such technical expertise, which will help reduce the wastage of medicines. Most drugs require specific temperature conditions regardless of seasonal changes,” Mvalo said.
Health authorities in Malawi have frequently raised concerns over the damage of essential medicines due to a lack of proper storage infrastructure.
One of the trainees, Clement Modise, described the training as rare and highly valuable. He said the skills acquired would greatly benefit both his country and his professional career in improving pharmaceutical storage systems.
He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Malawi for the opportunity to undertake the advanced training.
To date, Lilongwe Technical College has trained at least 20 individuals from various countries in the region in similar programmes.
