The Borno government has received life-saving cholera and Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) kits donated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to tackle potential cholera outbreaks following the recent flood in Maiduguri and its environs.
Speaking during the hand-over in Maiduguri on Saturday, WHO’s Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, stated that the cholera kits can treat up to 600 people, while the SAM kits will provide essential therapeutic supplies to treat 225,000 severely malnourished children.
He explained that the essential commodities would help reduce child mortality rates, combat malnutrition, and ensure children can grow and thrive in a healthy environment.
Represented by Dr. Mary Brantuo, Officer in Charge, stated that “this initiative is part of WHO’s broader strategy to bolster emergency response, strengthen health systems, and ensure equitable access to health services,” Dr. Mulombo said.
The donated items include five cholera kits to prevent and control potential outbreaks, 14 Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) kits to combat malnutrition among children, and medical supplies, including malaria kits, examination gloves, surgical face masks, and sterile syringes.
WHO has also repurposed funding for humanitarian response and is coordinating the health sector’s response with the Borno State Ministry of Health. The organization urged all stakeholders to continue working together to ensure no child is left behind.
Mulombo commended the Governor and Borno State Government for their unwavering support, as well as donors and partners, including BHA and USAID, and the WHO team and healthcare professionals for their hard work and commitment.
“Today, we gather to commiserate with the people of Borno State affected by the devastating flood. The disaster has displaced thousands, submerged homes, schools, and hospitals, and requires our immediate attention. The flood crisis has showcased the resilience of the people of Borno and the strength of collaboration among partners, government, and health workers,” he said.
“We thank the Governor and Borno State Government for their unwavering support, our donors and partners, including BHA and USAID, and the WHO team and healthcare professionals for their hard work and commitment.
“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.”
Mulombo stood alongside the Governor of Borno State, the ED/CEO NPHCDA, and the Borno State Commissioner of Health during the handover.
Borno Commissioner of Health and Human Resources, Malum Gana, commended the World Health Organization (WHO) for donating life-saving cholera and Severe Acute Malnutrition kits to the state government.
“I’m deeply grateful to WHO’s Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, and his team for their commitment to strengthening our health systems and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services,” he said.
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