By Grace Ofurum
The OWENO Foundation for Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment, in collaboration with the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Imo State, the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN), and public health experts, organized a one-day free medical outreach for women and girls. The event was held in Owerri as part of activities commemorating the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Princess Barr. Ngozi Eucharia Anyanwu, the Legal Adviser of OWENO Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to poverty alleviation through empowerment, feeding initiatives, and now healthcare. She stated that ensuring robust health for women and girls is central to their mission, noting that poor health in women negatively impacts family well-being and contributes to high mortality rates.
She disclosed that the outreach provided free access to over 11 medical tests and screenings, including cervical cancer screening, breast examinations, blood sugar tests, HIV and syphilis tests, blood pressure checks, weight assessments, temperature checks, HPV vaccinations for girls aged 9 to 14, and family planning services.
Anyanwu urged women to prioritize their health and seek medical attention when necessary. She assured that the foundation would continue its efforts to support underserved communities and improve the quality of life for the vulnerable.
Mrs. Chinyere Ohaegbulam, the Imo State Coordinator of AWLA, encouraged women to take advantage of such medical outreaches to monitor their health. She commended the OWENO Foundation for its collaborative efforts, highlighting AWLA’s participation as part of its advocacy activities during the 16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls.
In her remarks, Mrs. Chetachi Success Udeh, Esq., the pioneer state lead for the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF), Imo State, stressed the importance of periodic health checks for women. She noted that early detection of common ailments, such as cervical and breast cancers, can significantly reduce mortality rates. Udeh also advocated for greater awareness of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, calling for an end to all forms of abuse against women and girls.
The event featured a health lecture by Mrs. Chiamaka Pamela Ezike, a clinical officer with PPFN. Ezike highlighted prevalent health challenges among women and the importance of preventive measures. She warned against self-medication, urging women to consult medical professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment. Ezike emphasized that regular screenings are critical for early detection and treatment of conditions like cervical and breast cancers, which are leading causes of death among women.
The outreach successfully provided free health screenings and services to about 50 women and girls, aiming to improve their overall health and well-being.
