The Maternal Accountability Mechanism in Kaduna Initiative (KADMAM) has called on the media to intensify advocacy for improved Family Planning (FP) and Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) in Kaduna State.
This call was made during a strategic media parley held in Kaduna.
Speaking at the event, KADMAM Co-Chair, Garba Muhammad, commended the Kaduna State Government for its continued commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery, especially for women, children, and vulnerable groups.
He specifically acknowledged the leadership of Governor Uba Sani and Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe for championing people-centered healthcare reforms.
Garba highlighted key state initiatives such as the Maternal Mortality Reduction Investment Initiative (MAMII) and the HOPE Project, which he said have significantly improved access to quality healthcare across the state.
“We recognize the progressive steps taken by the government, and we stand as partners in progress to ensure greater accountability and impact in our health system,” he said.
The media, according to Garba, remains a critical stakeholder in amplifying public concerns, shaping opinion, and holding duty-bearers accountable.
He urged journalists to support advocacy for the timely release and effective utilization of budgetary allocations for FP services and the expansion of Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM) to all 255 Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities in the state.
He also emphasized the need for better integration of FP and MNCH services and called on the government to take full ownership of procuring FP consumables, which are currently donor-funded.
In a major development, Garba announced the launch of a new accountability platform – the Alliance for Kaduna Accountability and Strategic Advocacy (AKASA Network). The network, he explained, aims to harmonize advocacy efforts among Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), coalitions, and strategic partners working to strengthen governance and promote transparency in Kaduna.
“AKASA was birthed through a Strategic Alliance Meeting facilitated by CCSI and EngenderHealth in partnership with KADMAM. I am honored to serve as its Chairman,” he stated.
Other members of the AKASA leadership team include Jessica from CS-SUNN as Secretary, and Rahila Ishaku Baita and Yusuf Goje from KADALGAM as Executive Members.
The event brought together media professionals, health advocates, and representatives from the State Primary Health Care Board and Ministry of Health, reaffirming their collective commitment to improving reproductive and child health outcomes in Kaduna State.
COV: Khadija Kubau
