Communities in Gombe State are seeing a significant boost in primary healthcare access, thanks to interventions by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI).
READ ALSO : Immunization: Gavi Alliance invests $2.3 billion in Nigeria
Residents of Daniya and neighbouring communities in Kwami Local Government Area have commended the transformation of local primary health centers (PHCs), which GAVI has supported as part of a broader initiative to improve women’s and children’s health across eight Nigerian states.
Local Praise for GAVI-Supported Health Services
During a recent media visit to Daniya’s health facility, residents spoke highly of GAVI’s impact.
Previously, people in areas like Jauro Taler, Dinawa’e, and Wuro Chitta often traveled long distances to seek medical care—a journey that could worsen their conditions.
Today, GAVI-supported services, including immunizations, antenatal care, and treatment of minor ailments, are readily available within the community.
Suleiman Abdullahi, the Immunization Officer for Kwami LGA, shared that the Daniya PHC now serves 60 to 70 patients daily, treating common ailments such as malaria, dysentery, and diarrhea.
“We’re seeing a huge increase in people accessing the clinic, thanks to GAVI’s partnership with the Gombe State government,” he said.
Mr. Abdullahi also appreciated UNICEF’s Mama2Mama initiative for driving greater acceptance of immunizations, with community volunteers visiting homes to raise awareness.
Community Leaders and Healthcare Workers Voice Their Appreciation
Representing Daniya’s District Head, Abubakar Haruna Daniya expressed gratitude for the accessibility that GAVI’s support has brought to families, noting that incentives provided to patients and families encourage them to use the vital services, which were previously out of reach.
Health extension worker, Babangida Babayo described working with the GAVI Initiative as rewarding, as he witnesses the community’s increasing trust in immunization.
Mrs. Hauwa Mohammed, a frequent visitor to the PHC, appreciates the facility’s proximity.
“I can leave food on the stove, get treated quickly, and return home within minutes,” she said, explaining that services such as antenatal care and immunizations are now easily accessible and helping to keep her family healthy.
Support from UNICEF and Gombe State Leaders
At a recent media dialogue, Dr. Nuthatch Rafique, UNICEF’s Chief of Bauchi Field Office, highlighted GAVI’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Gombe State and seven other states to strengthen primary healthcare systems.
Dr. Rafique emphasized the role of media in sharing the initiative’s impact on local communities, particularly in reaching underserved families.
According to Dr. Abdulrahman Shuaibu, Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the partnership with GAVI has raised immunization coverage in the state to 86%, a milestone in ensuring healthier futures for women and children.
Challenges and Hopes for Continued Support
While grateful for GAVI’s intervention, Daniya residents hope for further support to address lingering challenges.
Community leaders highlighted the need for better fencing for the PHC, additional staff to meet growing demand, improved lab and maternity facilities, an emergency vehicle, and expanded water access.
As GAVI’s initiatives continue to make a difference in Gombe’s communities, residents remain hopeful that further enhancements will secure a stronger healthcare foundation for future generations.
Comments are closed.