Zamfara launches govt free healthcare initiative for women, children
By IBRAHIM KANOMA, Gusau
Zamfara State Government has launched a significant healthcare initiative providing free drugs and essential commodities to women and children.
Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, the state’s Commissioner of Health, flagged off the distribution program, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of its most vulnerable populations.
The initiative, valued at billions of Naira, fulfills a promise made by Governor Dr. Dauda Lawal under his “Rescue Mission Agenda,” Maradun said.
The Commissioner stressed the governor’s prioritization of public health, stating that a healthy populace is crucial for a prosperous society.
The distributed items include essential medications for antenatal care, aiming to improve coverage across the state.
Delivery kits will be provided to every woman giving birth in state health facilities, a move intended to reduce maternal mortality rates.
Additionally, drugs for common childhood illnesses like malaria, pneumonia, and diarrhea will be freely available, addressing leading causes of child morbidity and mortality.
Recognizing the economic hardship faced by many, the initiative also includes free medication for hypertension and diabetes for the elderly.
The Commissioner issued a stern warning against any diversion or misappropriation of the resources.
She stated that strict measures are in place to ensure the drugs and commodities reach their intended recipients and that any corrupt practices will be met with swift and decisive action.
Dr. Maradun emphasized that the provision of essential drugs is a cornerstone of a resilient and effective health system.
She described the distribution as a step toward building a sustainable healthcare infrastructure capable of meeting the needs of all citizens, especially women and children.
She expressed gratitude to those who worked to bring the initiative to fruition and called on security agencies, civil society organizations, and community leaders to collaborate in monitoring the distribution and utilization of the drugs and commodities.
The Commissioner urged vigilance to prevent misuse and ensure the program’s success.
She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare access for all residents, particularly women and children, pledging to continue working towards a healthier Zamfara State.
Earlier, Pharmacist Sani Bello, the Executive Secretary of the Drugs and Medical Consumables Management Agency (DMA), welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude to Maradun for her presence.
The Executive Secretary highlighted the significance of the event, noting the Commissioner’s second visit to the agency within a few working days.
He explained that the commodities being distributed were donated by MAPS International, UNICEF, and the Federal Ministry of Health, and will be instrumental in managing non-communicable diseases and improving maternal and child healthcare.
Pharmacist Bello acknowledged the state government’s support under Governor Lawal for facilitating the supply of these items and sponsoring the event.
He also recognized the role of the Emir of Bungudu, Alhaji Hassan Attahiru, in establishing the relationship with MAPS International.
Bello expressed optimism about the Agency’s future under Maradun’s leadership and with the support of the Permanent Secretary and other officials.
He requested further support from the commissioner, including convening a roundtable discussion on an integrated sustainable home-grown supply chain system to address issues like potential donor withdrawal, duplication of efforts, commodity security, and efficient resource allocation.
He also called for the enforcement of the DMA enabling act, which mandates the Agency as the sole procurer of drugs and health commodities using government funds, as well as the capitalization of the State Drug Supply Store (SDSS), manpower upgrades, and the provision of a pharmaceutical-warehouse.
