The Faith and Cultural Champions Group of Almanar Women Association (AMWA) has sensitised women in Zaria on the importance of bi...
The programme, held at Madarasatul Tarasu in Tukur-Tukur Ward of Zaria Local Government Area, was organised under the Faith and Cultural Champions Project implemented by IFCC.
The initiative seeks to address cultural beliefs, misconceptions and harmful social norms that may affect maternal and child health, particularly decisions relating to antenatal care, safe delivery and childbirth spacing.
Speaking during the sensitisation, a Metron, Aisha Ahmad, urged expectant mothers to adequately prepare for childbirth and possible emergencies.
She explained that birth preparedness involves identifying a skilled birth attendant, choosing an appropriate health facility, arranging transportation and making necessary financial preparations before labour begins.
Aisha Ahmad also advised pregnant women to attend antenatal care regularly and seek immediate medical attention whenever they notice danger signs during pregnancy.
She stressed the importance of support from husbands and other family members, saying timely decisions and access to healthcare could help prevent complications and save lives.
Some participants said the programme provided them with new knowledge and helped correct misconceptions they previously held about maternal and child health services.
They pledged to share the knowledge gained with their husbands, mothers-in-law, relatives and friends to encourage greater utilisation of antenatal care and other essential health services.
The participants also appreciated the use of Islamic teachings and Qur’anic references during the sessions, saying the approach made the health messages easier to understand and accept.
They called for sustained community sensitisation to ensure that more women and families have access to accurate information on safe motherhood, maternal health and child wellbeing.
The Faith and Cultural Champions Project leverages the influence of faith leaders, traditional rulers, community gatekeepers, husbands, mothers-in-law and other key influencers to promote positive health-
seeking behaviour and social change.
IFCC expressed appreciation to the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) for its technical support and for bringing the Faith and Cultural Champions Project to Kaduna State, thereby helping communities access life-saving health information and promote healthier families.
No comments