Oni na Foundation to Tackle Diabetes, Mental Health

Funmi Ogundare

Oni na Foundation (Love of a Mother) has been launched in the fight to tackle diabetes and mental health issues through empowering, awareness creation, prevention and management.

Oni na Foundation was borne out of the struggle of a mother and an entire family suffering from the pain of seeing a member of her family go through constant fear and uncertainty that these conditions can bring about.

This initiative is basically going to look at enlightenment programmes of both spiritual, social and medical implications and ways of helping individuals/communities to prevent or manage the pains of these diseases.

While raising awareness is crucial, Oni na will go further because we recognise the complex needs of individuals living with diabetes and their loved ones, offering a holistic approach to whatever supports.

“Against popular believes that traditional healthcare systems often lack integrity, leaving individuals struggling to manage both conditions effectively, we think that it would be worth researching and perfecting even as we believe the West is always using these methods to perfect their remedies and drugs

“Notwithstanding, Oni na Foundation intends to give equal attention to both challenges as they deserve.

“Oni na is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to prevent, manage, and thrive amidst the challenges of diabetes as well as mental health issues.

“Providing accessible and comprehensive support programs that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of individuals living with both conditions.

“Empowering individuals through education, self-management tools, and peer support networks.

“Advocating for policies that will improve access to integrated care and increased public awareness of diabetes and mental health issues.

Speaking about their programmes, they said, “We offer a range of programmes, including: individual and group therapy for managing stress, anxiety, and depression.

Others are diabetes education, self-management workshops and nutritional counselling tailored to both diabetes and mental health needs. Support groups for individuals living with either or both conditions.

On public education and awareness campaigns it said, “Prevention: Providing accessible education and resources to empower individuals to adopt healthy lifestyles and reduce their risk of developing diabetes.

“Management: Offering support and guidance for individuals already diagnosed, including disease management tools, access to healthcare resources, and self-care workshops.

“Advocacy: Championing policies that improve access to affordable care, medication, and essential resources for diabetes management.

“We invite individuals, healthcare professionals, community organizations, and concerned citizens to join us in our mission.”

Oni na Foundation was founded by Mr. Israel Godson Oghenekaro Onoriode, He is a performing artist based in the UK. As part of giving back to the community, he came back to inspire budding artists, starting with a seminar cum musical workshop recently in his Alma mater. University of Portharcourt.

Oni na Foundation is in memory of Mrs. Janet Diatacheko Onoriode Uge. This woman and her family suffered the traumatic experiences of diabetes and mental health, leading to the death of three of her children, including a step-daughter. “Oni na” in Urhobo means “The Mother”.