17 Restaurants Have Been Shutdown in Mpika Town
The Mpika Town Council in Muchinga Province has taken immediate action aligned with cholera prevention measures by shutting down 17 restaurants across the transit town.
The decision comes following comprehensive inspections by Mpika Town Council inspectors, led by Senior Health Inspector Francis Kapila, who uncovered significant lapses in hygiene standards among food handlers.
Senior Health Inspector Kapila highlighted a lack of proper personal hygiene among food handlers as major issue during the inspections.
In particular, many restaurant owners were found to be deficient in providing sufficient handwashing facilities, a fundamental requirement for any dining establishment.
Mr. Kapila stressed the importance of adhering to these requirements to prevent cholera outbreaks, which have been reported in various parts of the country.
One notable observation during routine inspections was the failure of some trading facilities to maintain a clean environment, contrary to the stipulations of the Food Safety Act No. 7 of 2019 and SI No. 12 of 2018 under the Public Health Act 295.
Kapila called for a concerted effort to clean up Mpika’s environments, aiming to prevent any potential cholera cases.
Residents of Mpika have expressed appreciation for the proactive approach of Mpika Town Council officers.
The routine inspections and garbage collection initiatives in various parts of the district have garnered praise from the local community.
The swift action taken by the council reflects a commitment to public health and underscores the importance of upholding hygiene standards in food establishments.
