Comic maker Che Nkope back in Malawi, well

Che Nkope comic-maker Nicholas Mbonera, who is also a DJ at Malawi Institute of Journalism (MIJ) FM, has given his first interview after undergoing a successful medical treatment at Milpark Hospital in South Africa, revealing he is in much better condition now.

Mbonela was diagnosed with Cardiogenic shock, a condition in which the heart fails to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, and government assisted him following President Peter Mutharika’s
directive for the broadcaster also known as Nthumwi Nikodemo to get best medical treatment outside the country.

In an exclusive interview with Nyasa Times on Tuesday, Mbonela who arrived back in the country last week after two months in South Africa, sounded jovial and in good spirit while revealing the medical
treatment restored his falling health.

Mbonela further revealed that he did not undergo a heart transplant as was earlier suggested; instead he underwent a thorough medical treatment that has proven to be worthwhile.

“I should say I had a successful treatment. It wasn’t as complicated as we earlier thought, and they didn’t do the heart transplant. After they reviewed my medical file, they said that would be unnecessary and put me on a treatment which has worked the magic,” explained Mbonela.

Mbonela said there has been a huge improvement since his time in South Africa, saying “I am now feeling better, I can’t complain of anything. God is indeed wonderful.”

He added: “I am really grateful for the support everyone including government gave me. My condition has improved, ndi za bho bho pano (it’s all fine now).”

He disclosed would take some time before resuming work as a broadcaster at Malawi Institute of Journalism (MIJ) radio.

Mbonela is expected to fly to South Africa again next year for medical review on his condition, adding “they have prescribed some medication am currently taking until I go back for assessment.”

Government spent over K6 million for Mbonela’s treatment, thus both medical bill and flight costs. Minister of Information Kondwani Namkhumwa said government came to Mbonela’s rescue considering the role he plays as a journalist and a musician.

Mbonela was once admitted to Blantyre Adventist Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU).