Stephen Enoch
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has launched a new project to reduce the alarming rate of maternal and child mortality in Kano state.
The three-year project tagged: “Promotion of Democratic Participation in Nigeria: Social Accountability in the Implementation of Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law in Kano.
Addressing newsmen at City Center Hotel on Thursday, the Executive Director of Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi said the primary objective of the project is to facilitate the effective implementation of the Kano State Free Maternal, Newborn, and Child Healthcare (FMNCH) Law, 2023 in Kano.
He emphasized that the law represents a critical step in ensuring that every mother and child in Kano have access to essential healthcare services, promoting their well-being, and safeguarding their rights.
“Building on upon the significant achievements and insights gained from the previous phase of the project, the current phase will focus on promoting the creation of a practical action plan to ensure the effective implementation of the FMNCH law.
“Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system to assess the progress of the impact of the law in Kano State.
“Efforts will be directed towards enhancing the understanding of networks of youths, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the media in the FMNCH law,” Dr. Zik said.
Fielding questions from newsmen on the storage of skilled birth attendants in Primary healthcare facilities (PHCs) in the state, Dr Zikirullah acknowledged that the low number of skilled birth attendants in PHCs contributes to the causes of MNCH mortality rate in the state.
He pointed out that the Free MNCH Law 2023 if operationalized effectively addresses the problem.
Dr. Zikirullah, however, noted that there has been a significant improvement in the MNCH mortality index.
“During our last tracking, we realized that about 75% of PHC budget was spent on recurrent expenses but due to various advocacies, a recent report shows that 55% of the funds are now devoted to capital projects.”
He then urged all stakeholders in the FMNCH framework to join forces in advocating for the thorough and effective implementation of the law in Kano.
Dr. Zikirullah thanked Mrs. Julia Krojer who represented MISEREOR-KZE, Germany, for their unwavering commitment to the welfare of women and children in Nigeria, adding that when the narratives of Nigeria’s effort to combat maternal and child mortality are documented, MISEREOR-KZE will undoubtedly hold a significant position.
CHRICED Boss also recognized the contributions of all stakeholders engaged in the maternal and child healthcare sector in Kano State.
The organization also acknowledged the contributions of other stakeholders in the maternal and child healthcare sector in Kano State.
In her goodwill message, Mrs. Krojer emphasized the pressing healthcare inequalities faced by women in rural areas, adding that many women, especially in rural communities, lack access to primary healthcare.”
Weighing CHRICED’s efforts, she praised its impact on women’s and children’s health, asserting that every woman and child, regardless of their class, deserves the right to quality healthcare.
Mrs. Krojer also acknowledged the uphill battle CHRICED is facing.
“The fight for justice is fundamental, but the road is long and filled with challenges,” she noted.
She envisioned a world where everyone could shape their communities, where diversity is embraced, and equality is not just an ideal but a reality.
“We encourage people to voice their needs and interests as individuals who know their rights and obligations.”
Mrs. Krojer stressed the importance of empowerment and participation in the pursuit of justice.
