Halcrow Foundation has contributed towards the rebuilding of a maternity and infant health unit in Central Province, Zambia.
The project was managed by Build It International, a UK-based charity we have worked with since 2019. The new lifesaving facility will provide safer births, better healthcare, and brighter futures for mothers and babies.
Health risks
Communities in rural Zambia have limited access to quality maternal and infant healthcare. Many women and newborn babies face significant health risks due to limited facilities, poor infrastructure and lack of skilled care. The original health centre in Chisamba served a growing community of 33,000 people, yet its maternity and infant care facilities were inadequate. As well as compromising the safety and dignity of women who gave birth there, it discouraged many from seeking skilled care. Before the rebuild, the centre had just one small delivery room and there was no dedicated ward for new mums and their babies. Instead, they were moved onto a general female ward which increased the risk of cross-infection.
Clean and safe environment
With help from Halcrow Foundation funds, the new Chisamba health centre can support a broader population of 55,000 from Chisamba community and surrounding villages, including approximately 720 pregnant women and their babies. The new facilities include:
• Expanded maternity capacity with a larger delivery room and antenatal and postnatal wards
• Consultation and clinic spaces, enabling follow-up care and vaccinations for young children
• Essential hygiene facilities with toilets, showers and sluice rooms for a clean and safe environment
• Private and secure waiting areas providing dignity and comfort for mothers and families
• Electricity connection to ensure safe deliveries, even at night
As part of the project, a group of young unemployed people were also trained in construction skills, life skills and given onsite work experience.
Community response
Chisamba resident Esnaya Phiri says the whole community is very happy with the new labour ward. “Unlike the old and small one, because it was too small,” she says. “Often you would find that women, expecting at the same time, would all be here. Giving birth one after the other on the same bed, and even waiting in line. This labour ward makes all of the women in Chisamba very happy and grateful!”
Main image shows Constance and baby Lushomo.
All photo credits: Build It International
