Pulse.ng : KDSG inaugurates project to bolster PHCs’ service delivery

By Stella Kabruk

The Kaduna State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with an NGO, ‘Engender Health’ on Wednesday inaugurated the Gates Foundation project.

This was with the view to implementing sustainable solutions to improve service delivery by Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project is titled “Advocacy Solutions to Improve PHC Service Delivery and Health Outcomes in Kaduna State”.

It seeks to ultimately lead to better health outcomes for communities in the state.

Speaking during the innuguration, thw Commissioner for Health, Umma Kalto -Ahmed, said the project was generously funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).

The commissioner lauded the support of the development partners and stakeholders in demonstrating a shared commitment to advancing healthcare service delivery in the State.

Kalto-Ahmed said that under the Gov. Uba Sani’s guidance,the state has continued to make remarkable progress in strengthening health systems and ensuring access to quality healthcare services for all.

“Today’s event is particularly significant as it brings together stakeholders from across the health sector to advance primary healthcare (PHC), the foundation of our health system,”she added.

The commissioner said the project was a critical step towards strengthening primary healthcare system and improving the health outcomes of the citizens.

Kalto-Ahmed said, “I want to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our healthcare workers, who have been working diligently to provide quality care to our communities.

“However, we recognise that there are still significant challenges to be addressed, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.”

According to her, the importance of primary healthcare cannot be over emphasised as it was the bedrock of efficient and equitable healthcare system.

Kalto-Ahmed added, “It is the first point of contact for individuals and families seeking healthcare services and plays a critical role in addressing the most pressing health needs of our population.

” In Kaduna State, PHC remains a top priority in our health sector agenda, as it aligns with our vision of universal health coverage and improved health indices.

” This project is designed to address identified challenges at this level of care by promoting advocacy solutions that will improve PHC service delivery and health outcomes.

“We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders, including development partners, civil society organizations, and community leaders, to ensure that this project is successful.

“I would like to remind us of the efforts being made by the State Government, Partners and Community alike in ensuring visible improvement in PHC service delivery in the state.”

According to her, in spite of the achievements, there are still challenges that hinder optimal PHC delivery.

They include gaps in infrastructure, human resources, service quality, and equitable access.

She said, “Advocacy, as championed by this project, is key to addressing these barriers by amplifying the voices of communities, engaging stakeholders, and driving policy changes that reflect the needs of the people.”

Kalto-Ahmed said the launch of the project underscored the power of collaboration between the government, development partners, and communities in achieving shared goals.

The commissioner added, ” I would like to express my gratitude and thank BMGF and Engender-Health for their support and dedication to this initiative.

“Together, we have the opportunity to design and implement solutions that will transform the health landscape of Kaduna State and serve as a model for other states across the country .

“Remember “complex problems are not impossible to solve.”

She said as a ministry, they were committed to providing the necessary leadership and support to ensure the success of this project.

“We will continue to work with our partners and stakeholders to strengthen PHC services, improve access to essential healthcare, and enhance the overall quality of life for our citizens.

“As we officially launch this project today, let us renew our collective commitment to ensuring that every individual in Kaduna State has access to quality, affordable, and equitable healthcare services.

” Together, we can build a stronger primary healthcare system and achieve the health outcomes that our communities deserve.

“Let us work together to ensure that this project achieves its goals and makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our citizens.

” May this event mark the beginning of a new chapter in our journey toward improved health for all,”Kalto-Ahmed said.

Also speaking,the Country Project Manager, Dr Kabir Attah, said the event was for the HCH to launch the new Gates Foundation project.

It is also to conduct aco-creation meeting. titled: ‘Advocacy solutions to improve PHC delivery and health outcomes in Kaduna State’.

He said the project was for three to five years, which aimed to strengthen the policy and financing environment for gender-responsive health systems.

It is to uphold health commitments, and contribute to the objectives of the PHC ‘Transformation Strategy and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII)’.