A MK1 billion ART building for Chinsapo Health Centre in Lilongwe has been opened, marking a milestone in Malawi’s HIV and AIDS response. Construction of the renovated facility was funded by AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF).
The two-storey facility will provide ART and other integrated health services to thousands of residents. It was officially opened on 9 June 2026.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Honourable Dr. Ben Malunga Phiri, MP; Deputy Minister of Health and Sanitation Honourable Charles Chilambula MP, Secretary for Health and Sanitation Dr. Dan Namarika, Lilongwe City Mayor Councillor Peter Alex Banda, National AIDS Commission Chief Executive Officer Dr. Beatrice Matanje, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Africa Bureau Chief Martin Matabishi, UNAIDS Country Director Dr. David Chipanta, Traditional Authority Malili and Ward Councillor Christopher Namankhwa, among others.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development honourable Dr. Ben Malunga Phiri commended AHF for investing in Malawi’s health sector and said the facility will offer more than HIV and AIDS services.
He said the clinic will also provide care for non-communicable diseases, noting that Malawi has lost many lives to such conditions and describing the intervention as timely and welcome.
“This clinic will not only offer HIV and AIDS services but will also provide care for non-communicable diseases. Malawi has lost many people not only because of HIV and AIDS but also due to non-communicable diseases which, at some point, did not receive adequate attention. This intervention is therefore highly appreciated,” said Dr. Ben Malunga Phiri.
The minister also warned health workers against stealing equipment and drugs, saying the facility must serve the community. In addition, the minister pleaded with the community to desist from vandalizing the health facility.
Deputy Minister of Health and Sanitation also praised AHF’s continued support, describing the MK1 billion investment as a major contribution to Malawi’s health sector. He said the facility will improve access to treatment for the wider community and highlighted the value of partnerships in national development.
“Everyone in the community will be able to access treatment at this facility regardless of their illness. This is not a small investment, and it demonstrates the power of partnerships in accelerating national development,” he applauds.
AHF representative Diana Hoorzuk reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to expanding access to healthcare, saying quality healthcare is a human right and calling for greater investment in health infrastructure.
“AHF believes that access to quality healthcare is a human right. This belief drives our continued advocacy for healthcare for all, regardless of one’s ability to pay. We also encourage governments and stakeholders to invest more in health infrastructure, and AHF remains committed to supporting such initiatives,” she said.
Lilongwe City Mayor said the ART building is timely and will reduce the need for residents to travel to Bwaila Hospital for some services. He said the facility will bring services closer to residents anytime and urged the community to protect it for future generations.
The Guests also toured pavilions including one which was mounted by National AIDS Commission (NAC) displaying HIV and AIDS services and interventions, where officers explained its coordination role and core functions in the national response to HIV and AIDS.
