The Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Dr. Agiriye Monima Harry, today flagged off the 10 Million Project, an initiative of the Rivers State Government, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and other key stakeholders. The project aims to provide free blood pressure and blood sugar tests to residents of the LGA.
Addressing health workers and beneficiaries, Dr. Harry expressed his delight at the level of participation and encouraged everyone to take advantage of the free medical services.
In a related development, Dr. Harry assured health workers of his commitment to improving the living conditions of nursing mothers in the LGA. He made this pledge during a visit by the Supportive Supervision and Monitoring Team for Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition.
Responding to concerns about the shortage of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) for malnourished children, Dr. Harry stated that funds would be allocated to purchase additional supplies while awaiting delivery from the State Primary Healthcare Management Board. He emphasized the need to address the root causes of malnutrition, including poverty and lack of access to healthcare.
The State Nutrition Officer, Mrs. Glory Wokocha, led the monitoring team to assess the progress made in treating malnourished babies. She revealed that approximately 200 children are currently receiving RUTF but expressed concern over supply disruptions caused by UNICEF’s request for government funding.
Mrs. Wokocha highlighted the varying consumption rates of RUTF, depending on the severity of malnutrition. She urged the Chairman to provide additional RUTF to support the treatment of malnourished children in the LGA.
Dr. Loliya Koko, the LGA’s Medical Officer of Health, emphasized the importance of reaching children in remote riverine communities. The team organizes three outreach programs per month, providing RUTF and routine immunization services.
Gloria Boma Harry,
Chief Press Secretary,
Degema Local Government Area.
Tuesday, October 29th, 2024
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