In Malawi, patient guardians, typically family members, are essential caregivers for hospitalized patients. These guardians stay in Guardian Waiting Shelter (GWS) facilities while taking care of their family member who has been hospitalized. Our previous assessment of GWS in southern region (link here) revealed that there are no clear ownership or policy framework for the GWS. Many GWS have inadequate sleeping facilities, and limited access water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, putting guardians and patients at risk.
The Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) has received a Collaboration Accelerator Award from the Reckitt Global Hygiene Institute (RGHI) to lead a national initiative focused on strengthening Guardian Waiting Shelters (GWS) in Malawi. In partnership with the University of Strathclyde and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, the project will generate critical evidence through national data collection, stakeholder engagement, and policy development. The findings will inform the development of GWS hygiene guidelines, with the goal of integrating them into Malawi’s national health and WASH standards, ultimately improving safety and access to WASH services for patient guardians.
