Guided by their motto, “Proclaiming the Kingdom of God in Love,” the Sisters of the Holy Rosary continue to serve communities through various apostolates, including health ministry. Through their commitment to promoting the dignity and wellbeing of vulnerable communities, the Sisters provide healthcare services at Atupele Hospital in Karonga Diocese, which is owned and administered by the Sisters of the Holy Rosary.
The hospital is under the leadership of Sr. Theresa Custom, the Sister in Charge, together with other Sisters and dedicated healthcare staff who serve patients with compassion and commitment.
As part of their efforts to improve maternal healthcare services, the Sisters received financial support from Manos Unidas towards the construction of a Maternity Waiting Home at Atupele Hospital. The facility will provide pregnant women, particularly those who live far from the hospital, with safe and decent accommodation while they await delivery. It will also enable healthcare workers to monitor expectant mothers closely and respond promptly when medical attention is required.
The blessing of the new Maternity Waiting Home began with Holy Mass celebrated at St. Stephen Parish, Kasantha, by Fr. Aubrey Sumbukani, CICM. Following the Mass, the congregation proceeded to Atupele Hospital for the blessing of the newly constructed facility.
The occasion brought together Sisters, priest, traditional leaders, healthcare workers, community members and other well-wishers. Many people expressed their appreciation for the development, noting that the facility will help address the challenges previously faced by pregnant women who had to travel long distances or struggled to find suitable accommodation near the hospital before delivery.
Speaking during the occasion, Sr. Theresa Custom, Sister in Charge of Atupele Hospital, expressed gratitude to Manos Unidas for the generous support that made the construction of the Maternity Waiting Home possible. She also thanked the priest, traditional leaders, healthcare staff, community members and everyone who attended the occasion.
Sr. Theresa further appealed to the community to take ownership of the facility by protecting and caring for it so that it can continue serving women and families for many years to come.
The new Maternity Waiting Home is a significant step towards strengthening maternal health services at Atupele Hospital. Through this initiative, the Sisters of the Holy Rosary continue to demonstrate their commitment to proclaiming the Kingdom of God in love by serving communities and promoting safe and dignified motherhood.
repared by Sr. Justina Ngulube ( SHR).