The National Theatre Association of Malawi (Ntam) Southern Region Chapter recently participated in a kidney awareness drive organized by the Mphukira Foundation. The event, held at the Alliance Française de Blantyre, featured a walk and a performance aimed at educating the public about kidney disease. The initiative was launched by Emmanuel Maliro, a former Wakhumbata Ensemble Theatre actor, after he was diagnosed with only one kidney.
The kidney awareness drive, which began in October, has gained momentum with various groups joining the cause. Hikers and artists participated in the event, which included a short play written by Charles Mphoka and directed by MacBen Mkochi. The play, featuring actors such as Steven Chisale and Macxytings Mdoka, used humor and facts to educate the public about kidney disease and ways to minimize risks associated with it.
Ntam Southern Region Chapter chairperson Allison Mpunga emphasized the importance of creating awareness about kidney disease. He encouraged people to get tested and know their condition, adding that this would enable them to follow doctors' advice on diet and other habits. Mpunga assured that Ntam will continue to conduct awareness campaigns on kidney disease.
Blantyre Theatre Lab director Mphundu Mjumira expressed his satisfaction with the event, noting that the message will reach a wider audience. Mjumira, who has known Emmanuel Maliro for over 20 years, praised Maliro for coming up with a good cause and commended the actors for supporting it.
The event featured a performance by the Mudzi Dance Troupe and a play on divorce written by Imran Shaban of Young Travellers Theatre. The play and dance performances aimed to entertain and educate the audience about kidney disease. The organizers hope that the event will contribute to increased awareness and prevention of kidney disease.
Emmanuel Maliro, also known as Manzy the Jumper in hiking circles, established the Mphukira Foundation after being diagnosed with only one kidney. His initiative aims to educate the public about kidney disease and promote healthy habits to minimize risks associated with the disease. The support from various groups, including Ntam, is seen as a positive step towards achieving this goal.
The kidney awareness drive is an ongoing effort, with various stakeholders working together to educate the public about the disease. The event at the Alliance Française de Blantyre is just one of the many initiatives aimed at promoting awareness and prevention of kidney disease in Malawi. The organizers plan to continue conducting awareness campaigns to reach a wider audience.
Key points
- Ntam Southern Region Chapter joins Mphukira Foundation's kidney awareness drive
- The event featured a walk, play, and dance performances to educate the public about kidney disease
- The initiative aims to promote awareness and prevention of kidney disease in Malawi
