Public health Institute of Malawi

Tag: E&Surveillance

  • PHIM Assesses District PHEOCs Nationwide.

    PHIM Assesses District PHEOCs Nationwide.

    February 11, 2025 – The Public Health Institute of Malawi (PHIM) with support from The Global Fund, is currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of District Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOCs) across the country.

    This exercise aims to determine the operational readiness and capacity of these centres to effectively manage public health emergencies within their geographical reach.


    The assessments involve a thorough evaluation of several key areas of PHEOC functionality, including: Infrastructure and Equipment – a review of the adequacy of facilities, communication-systems, and essential equipment, Staffing and Training – Assessment of the availability of trained personnel and their preparedness to respond to emergency situations, Plans and Protocols: An examination of the existence and efficacy of emergency response plans and standard operating procedures, and Coordination and Communication: An evaluation of the mechanisms for inter-agency collaboration and information sharing.

    These assessments are critical for strengthening our national capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats. By identifying any gaps and areas for improvement, we can ensure that our PHEOCs are adequately equipped to safeguard the health of all Malawians.


    The PHIM team is collaborating closely with district health officials throughout the assessment process and will provide support for any necessary enhancements. The findings from this exercise will inform the development of targeted interventions and training programs to reinforce the preparedness and responsiveness of District PHEOCs nationwide.

  • Solar power improves preparedness at PHIM

    Solar power improves preparedness at PHIM

    In a significant step towards sustainable development, the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre of the Public Health Institute of Malawi (PHIM) now has sustainable power solutions. This initiative aims to improve preparedness of PHIM, ensuring uninterrupted power supply for critical health services and surveillance data management systems.

    Solar panel for seamless power supply for the NPHEOC

    The introduction of solar power is expected to mitigate the challenges posed by frequent power outages, thereby improving the overall health service delivery in the region. The investment was supported by the Norwegian Institute of Public health who has a long standing collaboration with PHIM focusing on strengthening public health infrastructure and disease surveillance systems in Malawi. The procurement process of the solar panels was supported by a technical team from the Ministry of Energy.

    Dr. Trude Arnesen

    Dr. Trude Arnesen, a senior doctor at NIPH seconded to PHIM, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Reliable energy is crucial for the effective functioning of the emergency operating center. By providing solar power solutions, we aim to support PHIM in its mission to deliver quality health services to the people of Malawi.“
    This project underscores the potential of renewable energy in transforming healthcare systems in developing countries.

    Officers from Ministry of Energy, MERA and Inspecting the solar project.

    How do you feel about this initiative? Do you think renewable energy could be a game-changer for other health sectors in Malawi as well?

  • Mpox (Training of Trainers) ToT by Public Health Institute of Malawi Countrywide.

    Mpox (Training of Trainers) ToT by Public Health Institute of Malawi Countrywide.

    Empowering Healthcare Workers to Combat Mpox Outbreak.

    19-09-2024, Mponela, Dowa District, Malawi – Dr Mwale [front-left] and ToT 4th Session team.

    The Public Health Institute of Malawi (PHIM) has recently been conducting sessions of a critical Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop on Mpox countrywide. The Fourth session of the Mpox ToT took place in Mponela, Dowa District from 19th – 20th of Sepetember, 2024. Dr. Annie Chauma Mwale, Deputy Director for PHIM drew attention on, as she made opening remarks, that the exercise aims to strengthen the HCW capacity on districts preparedness for Mpox, as  South Africa and Democratic Republic of Congo are reporting Mpox cases.

    Mpox ToT 4th Sessions participants.

    This initiative aimed to equip healthcare workers [Clinicians, IPC Officers, HPOs, IDSR Coordinators, DEHOs, Pharmacists, Dermatologists, HIV Officers, Point of Entry Officers and Laboratory Officers] from Ntchisi, Kasungu, Rumphi, Likoma, Nkhotakota, Salima with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively manage and prevent the spread of the Mpox virus.

    Facilitation in process by Dr. Nyembezi on Mpox Treatment.

    The ToT program covered a wide range of topics like Mpox epidemiology and transmission: Understanding the nature and spread of the virus. Clinical presentation and diagnosis: Recognizing the signs and symptoms of Mpox. Case Management and treatment: Implementing appropriate care and treatment strategies. Public health response: Coordinating prevention and control measures, and many more.

    By training healthcare workers as trainers, PHIM is empowering the Healthacare workers in the districts to cascade their knowledge and skills to a wider network of frontline health workers, ensuring a more comprehensive response to the Mpox outbreak. The Mpox ToT workshop is a significant step towards strengthening capacity to combat the virus and protect public health of the Republic of Malawi.