Ovie smith, Yenagoa
A non governmental organization under the auspices of Women organized for mentorship and Advocacy Network, WOMAN has raised awareness on some critical health issues such as prevention of cancer, cholera, female genital mutilation and vaccination in Kpansia Community.
The community outreach organized by WOMAN is aimed at educating families and communities to take precautionary measures against these diseases as well as to sensitize the people on the importance and benefits of vaccination.
Executive Director, WOMAN Lady Eunice Nnachi who spoke on the prevention of cholera emphasized the need for regular hand washing and proper hygiene practices.
“Cholera is a preventable disease if we can always wash our hands and stop eating food on the streets which could be contaminated. Let us learn to keep our surroundings clean, taking proper care of our children”
Speaking on the negative consequences of female genital mutilation, she urged parents and guardians to desist from circumcision of female children saying it is a violation of their rights adding that it is harmful to their reproductive system.
Also speaking, Executive Director, Voice of the Ijaw Girl Child, Mrs Timi Ebiringa Tobi who spoke on Gender Based Violence urged women and girls to always speak out and call for help during an form of physical, sexual or mental abuse.
She equally urged parents and care givers to always listen to their children and protect them from any form of violation.
While speaking on the Big Catch up exercise, Secretary of WOMAN, Ebizimo Agedah called on parents to make their children between the ages of 0 to 5years available to receive the vaccines particularly for those who did not complete the routine immunization process adding that the vaccines are free, safe and effective.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth Vincent speaking on the prevention of cancer, she emphasized that young girls and women should always check their breast regularly to examine if there is any lumps or growth in their breast.
Furthermore the program manager, ENWAF, Pereowei Asingbi appealed to residents of the community to embrace positive behaviors such as good personal hygiene and regular health checkups to improve their health.
The Women Organized for Mentorship and Advocacy Network, WOMAN is a Nongovernmental Organization with a focus on improving families, community and sustainable development through sensitization, advocacy and mentorship.
