The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Kano State government in enhancing surveillance for Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM).
This commitment was expressed by the Head of Mission, WHO Dr. Kazadi Mulombo Walter, represented by the Kano State Coordinator, Dr. Mayana Sanusi Abubakar, during the flag-off of the first round of Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Week (MNCHW) held at Unguwa Ukku Primary Health Center in Tarauni LGA.
Dr. Abubakar highlighted that the number of children being treated for wasting and other forms of life-threatening malnutrition has increased.
He emphasized the need to strengthen the primary health care (PHC) surveillance system within the framework of the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) strategy to ensure early detection.
Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, Commissioner of Health, stated that the MNCHW aims to provide comprehensive care to pregnant women from conception to delivery and ensure the well-being of newborns and children under five.
A report from Kano Time noted that the WHO workforce in the Kano State field office is set to enhance capacity for SAM surveillance and community-based preventive action through a network of field volunteers across 484 wards in 44 LGAs of Kano State.
Governor Yusuf reaffirmed that the Kano State Government remains steadfast in implementing health programs aimed at improving the lives of its citizens.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Kano State Emirates, the Minister for Health, the Director-General of NPHCDA, the WHO Country Representative, and representatives from UNICEF, MSF, BMGF, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, and other stakeholders.
Dr. Mayana commended the State Governor for surpassing the Abuja Declaration by allocating 18% of the state budget to health for the year 2024.
