Maternal Mortality: Group Supports 20, 000 Pregnant Women in Ondo, other States

No fewer than 20,000 pregnant women in Ondo and other states in the country, have been supported with birthing kits, health education, and community support by a non -governmental organisation, HACEY, in a bid prevent and reduce cases of maternal mortality in the states.

The group, under its programme, tagged ‘Agbebi Project’ with the aid of Access Corporation, have provided the supports to 2,000 pregnant women in eight local council areas of Ondo state.

In an interview, the coordinator of the programme in the state, Samuel Oyibo, said that the group is dedicated “to reducing maternal mortality rates through safe childbirth initiatives demonstrated the impact of community-driven health interventions.
Oyinbo said that the group with the aid of Access Corporation, has reached out to 20,000 beneficiaries in many states which include Oyo, Osun Delta, Kwara, Kaduna, Ekiti, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi Akwa Ibom, Abuja, Edo, Taraba, and Ogun.

According to him “The project aims to enhance access to essential birthing kits, empower women with crucial health and financial knowledge, and foster strong community support networks for pregnant women in Ondo, Ekiti, and Enugu states, respectively.

“Since its implementation in the state, the Agbebi Project has made significant strides.
“It has successfully reached approximately 2,000 pregnant women across eight Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ondo State, equipping them with vital information for safer deliveries.

“These women have also received free and safe birthing kits, ensuring clean and secure conditions during childbirth.

“A standout feature of the Agbebi Project is its emphasis on community involvement. The pregnant women who have benefited from the project have actively participated in spreading knowledge by distributing information, education, and communication (IEC) materials to over 20,000 other women.

” This grassroots approach amplifies the project’s impact, fostering a culture of informed and empowered healthcare choices within the community.”

The project’s distribution of safe birthing kits addresses a critical need, providing sterile gloves, clean delivery mats, antiseptic wipes, and other essential items to prevent infections and complications during childbirth.

“Additionally, the health and financial information disseminated through the project helps women make informed decisions about their prenatal care, delivery options, and resource management.

“Community support is another cornerstone of the Agbebi Project. By engaging local health workers and volunteers, the project ensures continuous support and guidance for pregnant women, reinforcing the safety net around maternal healthcare.

“The success stories emerging from the Agbebi Project underscore its positive impact. Beneficiaries have reported safer delivery experiences and a greater sense of empowerment, thanks to the resources and knowledge provided by HACEY with the support of Access Corporation.”

Oyinbo added that “Over the last 16 years, we have partnered with organisations such as UNFPA, the United States of America mission in Nigeria, Australia Aid, Empower UK, With and For Girls Collective, Amplify UK, the Nigerian government, and private sector companies to execute projects aimed at improving the life outcomes of women, girls, and young people in Nigeria.”