Today, 28 July 2026, Patients and Community Welfare Foundation of Malawi (PAWEM) joined the global community in commemorating World Hepatitis Day through a community-led awareness walk from Chikwawa District Hospital to Dyeratu Primary School Ground in Chikwawa District, Malawi.
The event brought together people with lived experience of hepatitis, prisoners, vulnerable communities, community members, traditional leaders, religious leaders, herbalists, civil society organisations, and health partners to raise awareness, fight stigma, and encourage hepatitis testing and treatment.
The awareness walk was coordinated by PAWEM with support from the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust, Chikwawa District Council, PATH-SAFESTART Project, Partners In Hope, Civil Society Organisations, community leaders, religious leaders, and herbalists.
1,450 people have been diagnosed with Hepatitis B in Chikwawa District this far. Director of Health and Social Services, Grace Momba, said pregnant and breastfeeding women are among those being diagnosed.
She noted that while treatment and counselling services are available, stigma continues to prevent many people from getting tested and accessing care.
PAWEM Vice Board Chairperson Stanley Moyo reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to intensifying public awareness campaigns, encouraging early testing, reducing stigma, and supporting access to treatment.