In a bold step to improve primary healthcare delivery in Rivers, West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria said at the weekend it had donated and commissioned solar power systems to two care centres. primary health care in their host communities of Onne and Ogu.
The beneficiaries of the solar projects are the Model Primary Health Care Center in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area, and the Model Primary Health Care Center in Ogu, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area.
These facilities aim to address the persistent challenge of power outages, to boost healthcare delivery in communities. WACT-APM Terminals said the initiative will improve access to healthcare for more than 25,000 households in the areas.
Speaking at the commissioning event, Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, emphasized the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its alignment with community needs.
“This type of program is very much at the core of what we stand for as a company. While our business is handling containers and facilitating trade, we consider ourselves partners with the communities and governments where we operate. “This initiative reflects our desire to give back and be seen as an integral part of the communities we serve,” Klinke said.
Klinke also highlighted health and education as the two main pillars of APM Terminals' global CSR strategy.
“If we can improve the overall health of the people around us, especially women, we economically empower communities. “This solar project is a pilot and we anticipate expanding such initiatives to create a broader impact on society,” he added.
Echoing these sentiments, Jeethu Jose, Managing Director of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, reiterated the company’s dedication to improving the lives of its host communities.
“Primary health care is the backbone of any community. Strengthening these centers reduces the burden on secondary and tertiary facilities. Access to power is a basic need and we are committed to working closely with the community to ensure long-term growth, partnership and progress,” commented José.
The decision to implement solar energy systems was driven by a needs assessment conducted in Onne and Ogu. According to WACT-APM Terminals Community Relations Manager Justin Okwuofu, this assessment revealed that reliable power supply was the most urgent need for healthcare facilities.
The initiative received praise from local leaders and government representatives. Dr. Okachi Chukwuma, speaking on behalf of the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, commended WACT-APM Terminals for its alignment with the state government’s vision for primary health care.
Barr. Christians Tamunobereton-ari, Deputy Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, also praised the project, saying: “This solar energy installation is the most critical need of this facility. With this system, nurses and doctors will now work more efficiently.”
WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria continues to focus on health, education, training, empowerment and environmental initiatives as part of its broader mission to uplift communities and improve the quality of life in its operational areas.