The Zamfara State Ministry of Health on Thursday launched the Safe Delivery Initiative to strengthen maternal and newborn healthcare services across the state. The event took place at the Unguwar Dallatu Primary Healthcare Centre in Gusau.
Speaking at the launch, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Maradun, said the initiative aims to upgrade delivery rooms, improve antenatal and postnatal care, equip facilities with essential drugs, and provide skilled birth attendants.
Maradun, represented by the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Hussaini Yakubu, noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Dauda Lawal’s Rescue Mission Agenda, which prioritize health sector reforms to improve citizens’ wellbeing.
He explained that the programme follows Zamfara’s recent recognition as the top-performing state in the North-West at the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge, an achievement attributed to sustained investment in the sector.
“This pilot initiative begins with four health facilities in Gusau and Maru Local Government Areas, with plans to expand to 23 facilities across all 14 LGAs,” he said.
The commissioner acknowledged the support of partners, including WHO, Acasus, International Rescue Committee, Premier Urgency International, and UNICEF. She called on stakeholders to continue supporting the programme to reduce birth complications and rebuild community trust in the healthcare system.
The State WHO Coordinator, Dr. Raji Mukhtar, affirmed the organizations commitment to supporting the Zamfara Government as a key development partner. He also expressed WHO’s readiness to collaborate with the state and other partners as needs arise.
