STAKEHOLDERS VOW TO REVITALISE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IN BAYELSA

The Bayelsa State Primary Health Care Board, in partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, has held a citizens’ engagement town hall meeting to strengthen primary healthcare delivery across the state.
The one-day interactive meeting, held in Yenagoa on Thursday, brought together religious leaders, teachers, parents, community representatives, market women, and partners from Red Cross, UNICEF, W.H.O, the Clinton Health Access Initiative, and others.

In a lively question-and-answer session, participants raised concerns about community involvement in the security and protection of health facilities, the welfare of health workers, and greater commitment to primary healthcare services.

Chief Saro Tamunu of Okutukutu Community and Chief Adevuya Otobo of Kpansia Community, both community leaders, made firm commitments on the spot by pledging to ensure the safety and security of Primary Health Care facilities in their areas.

On their part, Imam Abusufyan Uche, Chairman of the Bayelsa League of Muslims, and Apostle Benjamin Danji also expressed commitment to partner with the Primary Health Care Board. They promised to sensitize and encourage women in their congregations to make better use of services at PHC facilities.

Similarly, Dr. Makio Perekeme, a Health Consultant, and Mrs. Ugomma Nyananyo of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency noted that health workers have recorded significant improvement in service delivery, through continuous training and capacity building.

The town hall meeting was designed to bridge the gap between communities and the health system, allowing citizens to voice concerns, offer solutions, raise awareness on key health interventions, and build greater trust in primary healthcare services.

Report by Ebi Oyinki