40 Bauchi Community Leaders Trained to Combat Child Mortality and Improve Nutrition
Bauchi, Nigeria – Forty members of Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) and Community Resource Groups (CRGs) from Bauchi and Ganjuwa Local Government Areas have undergone specialized training to address high child mortality rates and enhance nutrition initiatives in the region.
CHAMPS Initiative Drives Grassroots Health Intervention
The one-day capacity-building workshop was organized by the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS), a program under the College of Medical Sciences at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi.
Addressing Alarming Child Mortality Rates
Dr. Mohammed Farug, Chief Investigator of CHAMPS in Bauchi State, emphasized the program’s objective to equip local groups with critical skills to reduce under-5 child deaths. He expressed deep concern about Nigeria’s high child mortality rates, particularly in Northern regions.
“This high rate of child mortality pushed us to build the capacity of these CBOs and CRGs. They are vital in community surveillance and intervention efforts,” Farug stated.
Global-Local Collaboration for Child Health
Dr. Jamilu Yaya, CHAMPS Lead for Community Engagement, explained that the global surveillance initiative collects data on child death causes to inform targeted health strategies. The program focuses on:
- Community involvement
- Improved healthcare access
- Maternal and newborn care
- Immunization programs
- Infection control measures
Community Leaders Advocate for Stronger Interventions
Ibrahim Ladan, representing participating CSOs, highlighted the urgent need for:
- Enhanced antenatal and postnatal care
- Skilled birth attendance
- Emergency obstetrical services
Communication expert Nura Bashir Faggo stressed the power of community mobilization, stating: “Raising awareness about preventable diseases and promoting healthy behaviors is key to reducing child mortality.”
Expected Outcomes
Participant Mrs. Mairo Hassan expressed optimism that the training would strengthen community health surveillance and accelerate grassroots efforts to prevent child deaths across Bauchi State.
Source: Tribune Online