The Sokoto State government has reiterated its determination to continue engaging in strategic partnerships aimed at combating acute malnutrition among infants, young children, and mothers.
This commitment was underscored by the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Asabe Balarabe, during a close-out event for FHI360, a non-governmental organization that has been instrumental in the state’s efforts to reduce malnutrition.
Represented at the event by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Primary Healthcare Development, Bello Garba, the Commissioner highlighted the notable reduction in malnutrition rates in Sokoto State, on Friday.
She attributed these improvements to the combined efforts of the state government and the valuable contributions of FHI360, particularly through the knowledge and expertise the organization has shared over the course of their collaboration.
Dr. Balarabe emphasized that the Sokoto State government had already invested substantial resources, amounting to millions of naira, in healthcare development prior to FHI360’s involvement.
These efforts were directed towards improving the overall health and well-being of the population, particularly in addressing malnutrition, which has been a significant concern in the region.
“The Sokoto government had already made significant investments in healthcare delivery aimed at enhancing health outcomes in the state, even before FHI360’s intervention,” the Commissioner stated. “Their support, however, has further strengthened our resolve and enhanced our ability to reduce the prevalence of acute malnutrition.”
One of the key initiatives that the state has successfully implemented is the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant’s life.
This practice, coupled with improved nutrition for pregnant and lactating women, has played a significant role in reducing malnutrition rates among children in the state.
In recognition of FHI360’s contributions to the success of these programs, Dr. Balarabe presented traditional hand-woven bags to Mr. Victor Osatogbe, the State Coordinator for FHI360’s Alive & Thrive (A&T) Project.
This gesture symbolized the state’s appreciation for the organization’s efforts in improving health outcomes for Sokoto’s vulnerable populations.
