The Cross River State Government is dedicated to the health of its residents, which is why it is extending the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress through Coverage Acceleration and Service Transformation (IMPACT) project to all 196 districts in the state.
During a day-long advocacy and sensitization meeting in Calabar with local government chairmen, health supervisory councillors, traditional leaders and other stakeholders, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, emphasized this commitment.
The IMPACT project aims to improve the delivery of malaria prevention and treatment services, particularly in rural areas where malaria poses the greatest risk in Cross River State.
Ayuk stressed the need for quick action among attendees during a meeting similar to those held in the other two senatorial districts (northern and central). He stated: “We have an important task ahead of us and we must accelerate its implementation; “the Project Implementation Unit and the District Development Committee (WDC) must work together efficiently to achieve our objectives.”
He commended the Governor for supporting the project, particularly through the release of counterpart funds aimed at decreasing the prevalence of malaria in the state, reflecting the government's commitment to improving healthcare and safeguarding the health of citizens.
Dr Vivien Mesembe Otu, Director General of Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, noted that the IMPACT project consists of four components: malaria, immunization, knowledge for change and emergency response, all aimed at reducing infant and maternal mortality. rates in the state and throughout the country.
“We need your support to fulfill our mission. “We cannot engage with communities effectively without their participation, so we seek their partnership to ensure smooth interactions when we reach communities,” he noted.
He called for collaboration among all stakeholders, development partners and the general public to continue the fight against malaria and achieve a malaria-free Cross River State and Nigeria.
The IMPACT project is a joint effort with the State Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency.
Giving information on the project, Dr. Paul Odey, Cross River State IMPACT Project Manager, represented by Ifere Obeten, stated that the World Bank is supporting the Nigerian government in strengthening primary health care and reducing under-five mortality rates through a multi-phase programmatic approach. (AMP) intervention.
He explained that the IMPACT project represents a significant investment in the Nigerian health sector, which aims to achieve ambitious improvements in service delivery and strengthening the health system.
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