No political rally here: Ministry of Health holds interviews for Health Surveillance Assistant Posts at Area 30

By Burnett Munthali

Someone might mistakenly think that the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) or the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is holding a political rally somewhere in Lilongwe today.

This assumption, however, couldn’t be further from the truth.

What is taking place at Area 30 in Lilongwe is not a political event at all.

In fact, the Ministry of Health is conducting crucial interviews for the Health Surveillance Assistant (HSA) post.

Hundreds of aspiring HSAs have gathered at the venue, hopeful and eager to secure employment in the country’s health sector.

The large crowd and the buzz of activity around the area could easily be mistaken for a political rally, especially by passers-by or those viewing the scene from a distance.

But a closer look reveals a different story—one of young men and women clutching brown envelopes, patiently waiting their turn to be interviewed.

The Ministry of Health has continued to engage in recruitment drives aimed at strengthening Malawi’s public health system through community-level service delivery.

The HSA position is a vital component in the country’s health structure, providing first-line health services and ensuring that rural and urban communities receive basic medical support.

With unemployment levels high in Malawi, many young people see this opportunity as a potential breakthrough to escape poverty and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Today’s interviews are part of a nationwide initiative to bolster the health workforce, particularly as the country continues to recover from the effects of COVID-19 and other public health challenges.

The atmosphere is charged with anticipation and hope—not political slogans or party chants.

So no, this is not an MCP or DPP rally.

This is Area 30, Lilongwe, and today it belongs to the Ministry of Health and the determined job seekers answering the call to serve their country.