By MUNAMBEZA MUWANEI –
LACK of maternity facilities in the outer regions of Choma, the provincial capital of Southern Province is forcing expectant mothers to  take up room in the Choma General Hospital mothers’ shelter as they await the arrival of the babies.
The women who were found by the Sunday Times said they decided to leave their homes because they would incur more costs if they waited until the due date of delivery, when hiring transport to the hospital could cost them as much K300.
Ms Barbra Nanjame from Kalomo’s Siachitema area said it was much better for her to be at the mother’s shelter even if she was sleeping on the floor because she was assured she was within the hospital premises.
Ms Nanjame said if she decided to leave for the hospital on the due date for delivery she would end up spending more money on transport, food and other costs.
Ms Ruth Mweetwa from Sikalongo said the nearest clinic was quite far from her home and she opted move into the mothers’ shelter.
Ms Grace Muleya from Mbabala said she was referred to Choma General Hospital because of the complications but would be attended to at the hospital.
Choma General Hospital acting medical superintendent David Linyama said the hospital was upgraded into a general hospital and was now a referral centre for the surrounding district hospitals and health centres.
Dr Linyama said the hospital had received a consultant obstetrician and a gynaecologist and caesarean section was also being conducted at the hospital.