Traders at Kabwata Market in Lusaka have responded positively to the Ministry of Health’s call to keep public places clean in an effort to prevent the spread of Cholera.

ZANIS reports that Royce Mucha, a restaurant trader at Kabwata Market, has since encouraged fellow traders to maintain high standards of cleanliness to avoid markets becoming breeding grounds for Cholera.

“Markets can easily become hotspots for cholera if they are not kept clean, because many members of the public buy their food from here every day,” Ms Mucha said.

She added that restaurant traders have a responsibility to observe strict hygiene standards in order to give customers confidence and prevent the spread of the disease.

Ms Mucha also commended market management for its continued cooperation with traders, particularly in reminding them to adhere to hygiene and sanitation measures.

In a related interview, vegetable trader at the same market, Clifford Kunda urged his colleagues to always sell fresh produce, warning that raw vegetables can harbor bacteria that may cause cholera if not properly handled.

“Vegetables must be fresh and clean before they reach the consumer, because contaminated food can easily lead to disease outbreaks,” Mr Kunda said.

The response by Kabwata Market traders reflects growing public awareness and cooperation in the national effort to prevent cholera, as the Government intensifies its multi-sectoral approach to safeguarding public health.

Minister of Health Elijah Muchima yesterday during a press briefing, reiterated that the fight against cholera requires strong collaboration among key government Ministries, border authorities and the general public, describing the disease as largely preventable through improved hygiene and sanitation.