Chief threatens to ban churches

CHIEF Sipatunyana of Kalomo has threatened to ban churches which have been stopping people from seeking health care services at hospital.
In an interview in Lusaka yesterday, Chief Sipatunyana said some churches in Kalomo prevent mothers and other people from going to hospital.
“A lady died due to church leaders who advised her against going to the hospital to seek medical attention.
“They told her that her faith is enough and it will heal her,” the chief said.

Chief Sipatunyana has since reported the matter to Government, seeking guidance on how to deal with such churches.
The chief said he is waiting for a response from Government but that if there is no quick reply, he will use his authority as the chief to ban such churches which he said have contributed to the high number of deaths.
Chief Sipatunyana warned that he is observing all the churches in Kalomo and that those that are interfering with the health of people will be banned.

Meanwhile, the chief advised pregnant women to deliver at hospitals or clinics to avoid complications.
Chief Sipatunyana noted, however, that there are some villages which are too far from clinics and appealed to Government to construct more clinics to shorten the distance villagers have to cover to access health care.

Zambia Daily Mail