By Nnedinma Okeke :
The Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners, with support from Hon. Pascal Agbodike Foundation, has flagged-off optimized Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week (oMNCHW) in the state.
The oMNCHW: a week long activity with life saving interventions was flagged-off at Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State.
The Commissioner, SMOH, Dr Afam Obidike represented by Director Disease Control and Immunization, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi noted that the oMNCHW initiative is a cornerstone of the State’s commitment to improving health and well-being of mothers, newborns, and children across the State.
“Maternal and child health is a key priority for the Government of Anambra State as we recognise that the health of mothers and children form the backbone of a thriving society,” he said.
He explained that the week-long event underscores the State resolve to reduce maternal and child morbidity and mortality by delivering high impact, evidence-based interventions to our communities.
The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem said that the oMNCHW objectives were designed to provide free and equitable access to essential healthcare services for pregnant women, newborns, and children under five years of age.
Also, to administer life-saving interventions such as: Vitamin A supplementation, Deworming, Immunization, and Malnutrition screening, to educate mothers/caregivers on appropriate infant and young child feeding practices, family planning and hygiene.
Furthermore, to strengthen primary healthcare systems by promoting community participation and engagement.
The ES, represented by Dr Uliagbafusi, urged that all must work together as Government officials, Healthcare providers, Development partners and Community leaders to ensure that the oMNCHW services reach every ward, village, and household in Anambra State.
The UNICEF Team Lead, Mr Gift Oguzor expressed gratitude to the State Government, State health team, and the programme Sponsor for organising the flag-off ceremony which was geared toward creating awareness and sensitising people on the oMNCHW.
While urging all who attended the event to aid spread the news for everyone to be informed, the UNICEF team lead urged pregnant women and parents/caregivers with children under five years of age to visit the health facility nearest to them in order to access the interventions.
The Member representing Ihiala Federal Constituency, Hon. Pascal Agbodike who sponsored the program, represented by Mr Azuka Okoli urged mothers/caregivers in Ihiala LGA, Anambra South Senatorial Zone, and Ndi Anambra at large to ensure they utilise opportunities of the life saving interventions which the oMNCHW gives.
The State Nutrition Officer (SNO), ASPHCDA, Mrs Chikanso Obiechefu and immediate past SNO, Mrs Eriken Uzoamaka gave health talks at the event while educating and sensitising mothers on exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding.
The oMNCHW commenced in State from December 11 to 15, 2024.
*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State