First Lady of Enugu State Launches Mama Care Initiative
The launch of the Mama Care Initiative was a resounding success! I am delighted to announce that this groundbreaking program, resulting from the collaboration between the Custos Care Foundation and my office, has successfully enrolled 1,701 pregnant women on a one-year health insurance premium, ensuring they receive comprehensive healthcare services, including antenatal care, safe delivery, and postnatal care.
As I emphasised in my address, through the Mama Care Initiative, we are committed to significantly reducing maternal and infant mortality in our state. It is unacceptable that women should lose their lives giving birth or that infants should not survive their first days due to preventable complications.
Our vision is to provide our mothers with the security and support they need to bring new life into the world safely and healthily.
The event featured inspiring talks from esteemed guests, including the Commissioner for Health, Enugu State, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, who described the gesture as a significant milestone for His Excellency Governor Peter Mbah’s initiatives to bring government closer to the grassroots through the construction of 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres.
Dr. Ugwu Eunice Ngozi, Chairperson of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, emphasised the importance of prioritising healthcare during and after pregnancy. Mrs Loveth Onwuzulike of the Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency also spoke on dietary practices that can reduce the vulnerability of pregnant women to complications and malnutrition. The launch event was further enriched by a cultural dance performance by the Enugu Cultural Troupe.
Additionally, Dr. Uzoamaka Uzoechina, Technical Adviser on Gender Affairs, provided valuable insights on managing pressure and mental stress during pregnancy.
We also provided financial support and foodstuffs, including 1,701 bags of rice, to support the nutritional needs of mothers and their unborn babies. We understand the importance of proper nutrition for both mother and child and are dedicated to ensuring they have the resources to thrive.
