A network of civil society organisations in Akwa Ibom State, known as the ATM Network, has called on community stakeholders, particularly youths, to take ownership of health interventions and projects in their areas. The network, comprising ACOMIN, TB, and NEPWHAN, made this appeal during a media briefing at the completion of its two-year project on COVID-19 response and resilient health systems.
The project, sponsored by the Global Fund through the National Agency for the Control of AIDS and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, covered nine local government areas in the state. The network urged community members to pay attention to service delivery, particularly for HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis treatment, to identify gaps and prioritise their needs.
According to Mr Wisdom Jacob, Programme Officer for the C19-RSSH project, community members should protect their assets, including health facilities and equipment, from vandalism and theft. He cited instances of stolen solar-powered cold chain cables and vandalised health facilities, emphasizing the need for community members to take responsibility for their properties.
The project has implemented various initiatives, including stocking of drugs, revamping of boreholes, and installation of equipment. The network has also called for effective monitoring by the state ministry of health and primary health care development agency, as well as staff training on proper documentation and record-keeping.
Mrs Elizabeth Udoh, NEPWHAN Coordinator in the state, noted that the C19RM/RSSH project aimed to support the government’s efforts to strengthen healthcare systems in health centres. She highlighted the need for resilient infrastructure, a robust health workforce, and effective disease surveillance, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Akwa Ibom State Malaria Elimination Programme Manager, Dr Boniface Ukpong, commended the Global Fund for sponsoring the project and the ATM Network for its implementation. He noted that the project has helped mitigate the impact of malaria commodity shortfalls following US funding withdrawal. Dr Ukpong also applauded the state government’s efforts to remodel the health sector, particularly in rural areas, and emphasized the need for locals to take ownership of the facilities and ensure their sustainability.
The ATM Network’s call to action underscores the importance of community involvement in healthcare development and the need for collaborative efforts to strengthen health systems in Akwa Ibom State. As the state continues to grapple with health challenges, the network’s initiative serves as a reminder of the critical role that community stakeholders play in ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of health interventions.
