The Nursing and Midwifery fraternity in Zambia held a candlelight vigil to honour nurses and midwives who have died since the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic in country.
The Zambia Union of Nursing Organisation (ZUNO) hosted the main event which was held virtually in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Nursing and Midwifery Council of Zambia, Midwives Association of Zambia, East, Central and Southern Africa College of Nursing, and International Council of Nurses (ICN).
Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary in Charge of Administration Mr. Emmanuel Ngulube, graced the event stating that his ministry is indebted to the nursing and midwifery fraternity who are the key in providing primary healthcare.
Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary in- Charge of Administration Mr. Emmanuel Ngulube during the candlelight vigil for nurses and midwives who have died since the advent of Covid-19
The Permanent Secretary noted the need to strategically incorporate new practices, skill and knowledge in the battle against emerging pandemics and diseases.
Mr Ngulube also pledged Government’s commitment to improving the conditions of service for nurses and midwives in the country.
ZUNO president Mrs. Tisa Meleka Chiponda, stressed the need for Nurses and Midwives to take care of each other in times of ill health. She said Nurses and Midwives who have died since the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic will be remembered for their care and observation skills that helped to save many lives.
“In the midst of it all, we continue to advocate for health promotion, educate patients and the public on prevention of illness provide care and assist in cure, and providing support’ she said.
Guest speakers stand in honour of nurses and midwives during a candlelight vigil (from right to left) ZUNO president, Mrs. Tisa Chiponda, MoH permanent Secretary -Administration Mr. Emmanuel Ngulube, Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services MoH Professor Lonia Mwape, Nursing and Midwifery Council of Zambia Legal Counsel, Ms. Ettambuyu and ECSACON representative Dr. Prisca Munkoka.
And Nursing and Midwifery Council of Zambia Registrar, Dr Aaron Banda applauded nurses and midwives for their dedication to duty and service to others in the face of the pandemic.
Speaking earlier in a pre-recorded message ICN Chief Executive Officer Mr. Howard Catton, emphasised the importance of protecting nurses as they are most at risk due to the nature of their work, stating that “it takes not just a good heart to be a nurses, but also a brave one”.
Meanwhile, East, Central and Southern Africa College of Nursing Representative Dr. Prisca Munkoka urged leaders to protect the lives of nurses and midwives while giving care, adding that nurses and midwives need to practice in a safe environment.
Midwives Association of Zambia president Mrs. Sarah Ngoma stated that this has been this has been the hardest time for lifesavers adding that “life will never be the same”.
Covid-19 was first reported in Zambia in March 2020. From the first day to date, Nurses and Midwives have been at the battle front, despite the high risk of Covid-19 infection. Many have been infected, and some has died while in service.
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