As the world commemorates World Water Day, observed annually on 22 March to highlight the importance of freshwater, the focus aligns closely with Zambart’s Zipime Weka Schista! study, which addresses water-related diseases such as schistosomiasis.
The Zambart Zipime Weka Schista! study team recently hosted medical students from the University Teaching Hospital, the University of Maryland, and the Copperbelt University as well as pharmacy students from University of Maryland and staff from UTH. The students are currently undertaking a joint course in tropical medicine at the University Teaching Hospital. Their visit provided a valuable opportunity to gain insight into ongoing research efforts and to deepen their understanding of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) and its broader public health implications.
The group was led by Dr. Jane Park, an Infectious Diseases specialist at the University Teaching Hospital, and was welcomed by the study’s Principal Investigator, Dr. Kwame Shanaube. Zipime Weka Schista Study Manager, Rhoda Ndubani, delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting the organisation’s work in schistosomiasis research, with particular focus on innovative approaches to screening and integrated care for FGS, HPV, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The session aimed to provide students with a deeper appreciation of Zambart’s contribution to advancing research and improving health outcomes in Zambia.
The Zipime Weka Schista! study is a longitudinal cohort study that seeks to integrate female sexual and reproductive health screening through a one-stop self-sampling approach for schistosomiasis and other genital infections. The study also aims to improve access to screening services by enabling early detection and timely management of these conditions among women in study communities in Livingstone and Kafue.
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by infection with Schistosoma worms. It is primarily transmitted through contact with contaminated freshwater where specific types of snails release larval forms of the parasite. People become infected during routine activities such as swimming, bathing, or washing in infested water. The disease is closely linked to limited access to clean water, poor sanitation, and inadequate hygiene practices, making it a significant public health concern in many communities.
#WorldWaterDay2026 #WaterandGender #Where Water Flows; Equality Grows #SelfTesting #EarlyDetection