German Consul General Dr. Rüdiger Lotz appreciates MALC, saying it is crucial for the stability of healthcare situation in Tando Jan Muhammad, and terms MALC’s effort as outstanding
By Imtiaz Hussain
KARACHI: German Consul General Dr. Rüdiger Lotz and MALC CEO Mervyn Lobo embarked on a mission to bring solace and hope to those whose lives were devastated by the catastrophic floods of 2022. The mission, more than just a visit, marked a continuation of the decades-long partnership between the German Consulate and the Marie Adelaide Leprosy Centre (MALC), a relationship rooted in the pioneering work of Dr. Ruth Pfau.
Two years ago, when the floods wreaked havoc across Sindh, Dr. Lotz had visited MALC’s healthcare center in Tando Jan Mohammad, witnessing firsthand the dire situation of the people affected. Returning to the same center, he praised MALC’s unwavering dedication to providing essential medical care and support to the marginalized communities in the area. “People here were already in a difficult situation, even before the flooding. They need medical care and support, which MALC is providing.
As German Consul General in Karachi, German Consul General Dr. Rüdiger Lotz appreciates MALC, saying it is crucial for the stability of healthcare situation in Tando Jan Muhammad, and terms MALC’s effort as outstanding. The visit underscored the long-standing commitment of the German Consulate to MALC, a relationship that began over 60 years ago with Dr. Pfau’s tireless efforts to combat leprosy and support vulnerable communities. Dr. Lotz highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting, “We have been supporting MALC for over 60 years and will continue to do so, as it is a vital tradition that has closely linked many Pakistani people with Germany and German citizens who have generously donated to this cause.”
MALC CEO Mervyn Lobo reflected on the visit, recalling the legacy of Dr. Ruth Pfau, whose indomitable spirit continues to inspire MALC’s work. “It brings back memories of the legendary Dr. Ruth Pfau. Despite the rain, we didn’t cancel the program, just like Dr. Pfau never did. This is the German spirit that continues to drive our program. The day was exciting and challenging, but we remain committed to serving the people in the spirit of Dr. Pfau. We work in areas where others don’t go, providing services to marginalized communities.”
Upon arrival at the MALC Tando Jan Muhammad center, the delegation was warmly welcomed by the staff, who honored them with traditional ajrak and topi, symbolizing the deep respect and gratitude of the local community. The day began with a tour of the center and a briefing on its vital healthcare services, which continue to support the surrounding communities. A wheelchair distribution ceremony followed, exemplifying MALC’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those in need.
The journey then took the team 25 kilometers further to Haji Khan Village in Taluka Jhudo, District Mirpurkhas, where they were greeted by forty adults and their children, eagerly awaiting the handover of their new homes. These 31 one-room houses, constructed with resilience and care, represent a new beginning for families who had lost everything to the floods. The homes, built to withstand future monsoons, are more than just shelters; they are symbols of life returning to normalcy. In a poignant gesture, the MALC team and Consul General Dr. Lotz joined the villagers in planting new trees, symbolizing hope and renewal.
The villagers expressed their deepest gratitude for the roofs over their heads and the chance to rebuild their lives. The day, filled with smiles that had long been washed away by the floods, marked the start of a new chapter for the community, as they embraced the hope and security that their new homes provided. The visit of Dr. Rüdiger Lotz and Mervyn Lobo not only highlighted the enduring support of the German Consulate but also reinforced the importance of compassion, resilience, and international cooperation in the face of adversity.
HealthcareForAll, #GermanConsulate, #MALC, #DrRuthPfauLegacy, #FloodRelief, #InternationalCooperation, #TandoJanMuhammad, #SindhRelief, #HumanitarianAid, #HealthcareStability,
