The World Health Organization (WHO) has donated essential medical and nutritional supplies to the Borno State Government, aiming to save the lives of thousands of children threatened by malaria, malnutrition, and cholera.
The donation comes just days after news about a malnourished family whose children were blinded by unexplained ailments went viral on social media. In 2023, FHI 360, a non-governmental organisation operating in Nigeria’s northeastern region, reported over 15,000 cases of child wasting—a 160 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The situation continues to deteriorate due to worsening food insecurity and ongoing displacement caused by armed violence in the region.
The WHO donation is expected to improve healthcare services for the most vulnerable, particularly children under five.
“This timely contribution is poised to reduce child mortality rates, combat malnutrition, and ensure children can grow and thrive in a healthy environment,” said Dr Ann Fortin, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Cluster Lead at WHO Nigeria.
In 2023, WHO’s interventions in Borno State reached over six million people, providing critical services such as malaria treatment, micronutrient supplementation for pregnant mothers, and deworming for children. The latest donation will specifically support over 3,200 children under five with severe acute malnutrition and medical complications in stabilisation centres.
Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Country Representative to Nigeria, highlighted the life-threatening challenges children face in the region. “Malaria and cholera are significant threats to young lives in Borno. This donation is a lifeline that will provide the necessary resources to combat these deadly diseases,” he stated.
“As we move forward, let us renew our commitment to safeguarding the health and future of our children. Together, we can create a healthier and brighter future for the children of Borno State.”
Borno State Commissioner for Health and Human Resources, Prof. Malum Gana, commended the World Health Organization (WHO) for timely donating essential medical supplies.
Prof. Gana said, “The donated items will be utilised judiciously to enhance healthcare services for the people of Borno, especially the vulnerable populations.”
He assured that the state government remains committed to collaborating closely with the WHO and other partners to meet the healthcare needs of its citizens. “The Borno State government will continue to prioritise the health sector, focusing on providing quality and accessible healthcare services for all,” Prof. Gana added.
Last week, concerned individuals in Maiduguri initiated a crowdfunding effort to support a widower whose three severely malnourished children went blind. While the Borno State government has intervened to offer general assistance to the family, who are living in a makeshift home, their plight highlights the widespread hunger and malnourishment affecting many vulnerable individuals in the state.
Meta: WHO donates essential medical and nutrition supplies to Borno State to combat child mortality and malnutrition.
SEO: WHO donates medical, nutrition supplies to fight child mortality, malnutrition in Borno.
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