It is with deep concern that communities have to see reports on the cholera outbreak in South Africa. A disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, cholera is highly contagious and easily transmissible through contaminated food and water sources. This outbreak, which began in early 2021, has affected thousands of individuals and had a devastating impact on the population.

In Mozambique, an outbreak of cholera had been growing exponentially since December 2022 with geographic spreads to new districts. Heavy rainfall in the first weeks of February 2023 further worsened the situation.

A multi-pronged approach is essential to combat cholera and reduce mortality.

The measures used combine surveillance, improvement of water supply, sanitation and hygiene, risk communication and community engagement, treatment of the disease and use of oral cholera vaccines. Countries affected by cholera are advised to strengthen disease surveillance and national preparedness to rapidly detect and respond to possible outbreaks.

Cholera outbreaks are not uncommon in developing countries, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene, but a large urban growth profile. Unfortunately, this is also the case in parts of South Africa. The outbreak has highlighted the urgent need for improvements in sanitation facilities, access to clean water, and health education in affected communities.

The effects of cholera are severe, often leading to dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. If left untreated, the disease can quickly progress to a life-threatening condition. Inadequate access to healthcare resources in affected areas has further exacerbated the situation, resulting in high mortality rates.

MEB: Partner in a Crisis

We want to provide solutions and technology to address the situation, by distributing clean water to affected areas and transferring the necessary skills to sustain the service levels achieved.

As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to remember that other diseases like cholera still pose a significant threat to public health as well. Ensuing adequate power and clean water services is proven to be the fastest way to support the health care systems that rely on these essential services.

MEB has a comprehensive portfolio of solutions ranging from:

  • Water & Wastewater Treatment
  • Power Generation

We will accompany you through all project stages right from design to construction, and commissioning, to help you combat the spread of waterborne disease. Our teams provide complete management and monitoring throughout the complete project cycle, making your day-to-day activities easier while delivering a premium service.

1. TURNKEY PROJECTS

2. DBO (DESIGN, BUILD AND OPERATE)

3. BOT (BUILD, OPERATE & TRANSFER)

4. BOOT (BUILD, OWN, OPERATE & TRANSFER)

These are all home grown and international expertise combined to empower a powerful continent; and with the right technical solutions can efficiently solve any problems pertaining to the financing, design and planning of infrastructure.

Let’s work together to improve sanitation and healthcare infrastructure, particularly in disadvantaged communities, to prevent future outbreaks and mitigate the effects of such diseases.