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By Williams Ago, Gombe
A joint medical outreach organised by the Gombe State Government in collaboration with Rotary International has kicked off in the State aimed at intensifying efforts towards reducing maternal, child morbidity and mortality.
The intervention, which covers Gombe, Kaltungo, and Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Areas (LGAs) was flagged off by the State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, alongside the National Coordinator and Country Director of Rotary Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health in Nigeria, Professor Emmanuel Adedolapo Lufadeju.
The outreach, which was held simultaneously in Yelenguruza and Kagarawal communities in Gombe LGA, provided medical consultations, treatment, and sensitization for the people.
According to Prof. Lufadeju, the program was designed to direct medical care and community-wide health awareness.
He said, "We had over 120 people turn out at Kagarawal alone, and more than 70 percent tested positive for malaria. Many did not even know they had it. This shows how silent the disease can be, and I am glad we were able to provide treatment".
He also explained that Rotary International has been conducting similar outreaches in Nigeria since 2013, combining community dialogue, awareness campaigns, diagnosis, and treatment, among other things.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Dahiru commended Rotary International for its sustained partnership and urged residents to take advantage of upgraded health facilities across the state.
“Our Government under Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has revitalised and upgraded health facilities. I encourage our people not to wait for special outreaches before seeking care. Pregnant women should attend antenatal clinics, and parents must ensure children under five are immunised to prevent avoidable deaths,” he stated.
The commissioner also applauded other donor agencies and partners supporting the State to drive down maternal mortality and ensure universal health coverage.
Meanwhile, some beneficiaries at the outreach in Kagarawal community commended the team for coming to their aide. They also appreciated the State Government for investing in the health sector to care for the people.
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