In an effort to increase awareness on infertility and ending stigma among the affected individuals, Beautify Malawi (BEAM) has partnered with a German organisation Merck Foundation in order to build equitable and quality healthcare capacity among people with infertility. 

The development follows the unveiling of a programme in Lilongwe known as Merck More Than a Mother under the theme “addressing infertility – restoring dignity to the affected”.

Speaking during the event First Lady Gertrude Mutharika said she understands the stigma that comes with infertility hence the introduction of the programmes.

“These programmes will prove very significant in creating an impact on our people`s advancement, as health is very critical to our social and economic development,” she said.

According to the First Lady, the launched programs will assist in breaking stigma of infertility across the country in order to improve health and wellbeing of people who have similar health background.

However, officials in the Ministry of Health And Population have advised the First Lady to first deal with cancer if the battle against infertility is to be won.

On his part, Health Minister, Jappie Mhango said his ministry will make sure that the problem of cancer is addressed in order for the infertility programme to be a success.

Research by Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital indicates that 17, 000 new cancer cases are registered every year in Malawi while over 2000 women die annually due to cancer.

The research further discovered that most infertility cases are as a result of cancer infections.

The programme, which is being funded by Merck Foundation, will see women with infertility problem being assisted in the country’s hospitals.