The Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) was established in 1966 as an ecumenical umbrella organisation for Church-owned health facilities and health training institutions across Malawi. It is co-owned by two Church Mother Bodies: The Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB) and the Malawi Council of Churches (MCC). CHAM is governed through a four-tier structure comprising the General Assembly, Board of Trustees, Board of Directors, and Management. The General Assembly, made up of leaders from all proprietor churches that own CHAM-affiliated health facilities, serves as the highest policy-making body within the organisation.
As of 2025, CHAM’s network includes 194 member units, consisting of 24 hospitals, 29 rural hospitals, 117 health Centres with maternity services, 24 health Centres without maternity, and 11 training colleges. These facilities operate in 27 of Malawi’s 28 districts, with the exception of Mwanza. Approximately 75% of CHAM’s facilities are located in rural and hard-to-reach areas, significantly contributing to health service accessibility in underserved communities. The network supports a workforce of 13,031 health personnel, delivering an estimated 37% of Malawi’s healthcare services. Additionally, CHAM’s training institutions are responsible for producing approximately 80% of the country’s mid-level health professionals, making it a critical contributor to the national health workforce.
The CHAM Secretariat acts as the executive arm of the organisation, providing coordination, strategic leadership, and representation of member units. It serves as a key liaison in policy dialogue and partnerships with the Government of Malawi, development partners, and other stakeholders involved in health service delivery and system strengthening.
This Strategic Plan outlines CHAM’s priorities for the period 2025-2030, building on past achievements while addressing emerging health challenges in Malawi’s dynamic healthcare environment.
Mandate for CHAM Secretariat
- To coordinate health care services among all CHAM members.
- To be a conduit between CHAM Units and GOM in the provision of healthcare services
- To provide technical support to members.
- To represent CHAM members in different fora.
- To ensure standards for the provision of quality health care services and health worker training are adhered to in member units.
- To mobilise resources and support for capacity building
- To advocate for policy change and build partnerships in the interest of CHAM members.