The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has launched a new project aimed at tackling the persistent issue of maternal and child mortality in Kano State.
During the inaugural press briefing for the project, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, highlighted the alarming rates of infant and maternal deaths in the state. He emphasized that the project seeks to curb these high mortality rates through strategic interventions and community involvement.
Kano State records a staggering 1,025 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, underscoring the critical need for community engagement and collaboration to achieve the project’s goals.
“We urge all key stakeholders involved in the Kano State Maternal and Child Healthcare Framework to join forces with us in advocating for the thorough and effective implementation of the Kano State Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law,” Zikirullahi stated.
Nigeria, as a whole, accounts for 10% of global maternal deaths, with 576 deaths per 100,000 live births, making the situation in Kano particularly dire.
CHRICED has identified limited access to healthcare services and a lack of accountability as key challenges. The proper implementation of the state’s healthcare law is expected to address these issues.
The three-year project is focused on ensuring the effective implementation of the Kano State Free Maternal, Newborn, and Child Healthcare (FMNCH) Law of 2023.
“The project will foster a culture of social accountability and transparency in the allocation of budgets for maternal and child healthcare,” Zikirullahi explained. “It will also educate the public on their rights to maternal and child healthcare and mobilize community members to advocate for improved healthcare delivery.”
He commended MISEREOR-KZE, a German organization, for supporting the project and for its long-standing commitment to the welfare of women and children in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, MISEREOR-KZE’s representative, Mrs. Julia Krojer, reiterated the organization’s dedication to reducing maternal and child mortality in Africa. She also praised CHRICED for its efforts to prevent avoidable deaths in Kano State.