SPARK II Campaign Partners with Anambra Government for Improved Primary Health Services

The Strengthening Public Accountability for Results and Knowledge (SPARK II) Campaign, in partnership with the Anambra State Ministry of Health (ASMOH), in a concerted effort to enhance Primary Healthcare (PHC) and Maternal and Child Health (MCH) service delivery, recently held a one-day meeting in Awka with representatives from local governments and community primary healthcare centers (PHCs).

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The event spotlighted the critical importance of accountability within the health sector. Dr. Afam Obidike, Commissioner for Health, urged participants to take their roles seriously, warning that those who neglect their responsibilities risk termination. He emphasized the necessity of accountability in government operations, particularly given the substantial investments in the health sector that demand measurable outcomes.

Dr. Obidike also praised the state government for its ongoing health initiatives, such as the introduction of solar power and access to pipe-borne water through public-private partnerships. He highlighted that while the government contributes 5 percent of funding, the private sector commands 95 percent of healthcare spending, thereby stressing the need for improved internally generated revenue (IGR) to sustain public health efforts. He noted that half of the state’s PHCs have been renovated to bolster service delivery.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Obiageli Uchenabo, reiterated the importance of adequate funding for health services. She commended the Governor Soludo-led administration for its investments in solar energy, security fencing for health facilities, enhancement of human resources, construction of nurses’ quarters, and provision of medications and free medical services.

Dr. Uchenabo advocated for increased collaboration among the government, health partners, and community stakeholders. She highlighted the necessity of synergy between local government supervisory counselors, PHC administrators, and ward development committees to ensure accountability in grassroots health initiatives. Consistent supervision was emphasized as key to ensuring that health workers are present, government-provided equipment remains operational, and patients receive satisfactory care.

Highlighting the governor’s commitment to extending healthcare access to even the most remote areas, Dr. Uchenabo called on all stakeholders to promote enrollment in the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) for sustainable medical care access.

Dr. Nkem Okeke, the Supervisory Councillor for Health in Idemili North, reinforced the role of Ward Development Committees in supervising health services within their communities. He encouraged collaboration with local supervisory counselors and philanthropists to further support government initiatives. He also advocated for the repair of underutilized tricycle ambulances to improve patient transportation.

Mr. Godwin Ide, the Anambra State Chairman of the Community Empowerment Network (COMEN), commended Governor Soludo for significant investments in the health sector, which he said have led to substantial reductions in maternal and child mortality. Ide noted that rural communities, once reliant on unqualified practitioners for childbirth, now have access to qualified healthcare providers within government facilities.