European Union (EU), in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), and UNICEF, has introduced the €40 million Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (SARAH) programme.
Aiming to Transform Healthcare in Key States
Launched on Wednesday, December 11, in Abuja, the SARAH initiative targets improved reproductive health outcomes for women and adolescents across Sokoto, Adamawa, and Kwara states.
Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, represented by Dr. John Ovuoraye, highlighted the programme’s critical role in tackling Nigeria’s pressing health challenges. “This programme will help address many of the health challenges plaguing Nigeria. We are extremely pleased and grateful to the EU for answering the government’s call to pool resources, both domestic and international, to tackle health issues collectively,” Pate said. European Union
EU’s Commitment to Strengthening Healthcare
The Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Amb. Gautier Mignot, represented by Dr. Anthony Anyeke, underscored the EU’s commitment to advancing healthcare. The four-year programme aims to enhance data collection, analysis, and utilisation to improve healthcare delivery.
“Our wish is to continue advocating for accessible healthcare, informed choices, and strong partnerships fostered through effective coordination among stakeholders,” Mignot stated, urging proactive measures to expand access to sexual and reproductive health services. European Union
State Leaders Welcome the Initiative
Kwara State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El-Imam, speaking on behalf of counterparts in Sokoto and Adamawa, expressed optimism about the programme’s impact.
“The size of this fund means we can make a significant impact on the lives of children, adolescents, women, and all Nigerians. We must ensure efficient utilisation of these resources to achieve tangible health outcomes,” she said.
Focus on Gender-Responsive and Adolescent-Inclusive Care
UNFPA Deputy Country Representative, Mr. Koesson Kuawu, detailed the programme’s objectives, emphasizing its focus on gender-responsive and adolescent-inclusive primary healthcare.
“The programme strengthens the inclusion of gender and adolescent-responsive primary healthcare at the national level and enhances accessibility and utilisation of integrated quality services at state, LGA, and community levels,” Kuawu explained.
Building a Resilient Future for Nigeria
UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, commended the initiative’s alignment with Nigeria’s broader health goals.
“This initiative is a significant investment in Nigeria’s present and future. It is about building a healthier, more resilient nation where every woman, adolescent, and child can thrive,” Munduate remarked.
The SARAH programme represents a collaborative effort to create a robust healthcare system, ensuring better health outcomes for Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations.
