Rotary Club of Onitsha Metropolis Boosts Maternal, Child Healthcare with Major NAUTH Outreach

By Praise Chinecherem

In a significant step toward improving maternal and child healthcare in Anambra State, the Rotary Club of Onitsha Metropolis has launched its first flagship humanitarian project with a comprehensive Maternal and Child Health Outreach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Neni.

The initiative brought hope to pregnant women and nursing mothers, who received free health education, professional counselling, essential medications, and maternal care items, while the hospital also benefited from the donation of medical equipment aimed at improving healthcare delivery.

The outreach, led by the Club’s 25th President, Rtn. Ezuma Smart Chinedu, was organized in collaboration with Rotary Clubs and Rotaract Clubs across Anambra State to commemorate Rotary International’s Maternal and Child Health Week.

Speaking after the event, Chinedu described the programme as the first major service project of his administration and reaffirmed the club’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of mothers and children through sustainable humanitarian interventions.

“This outreach is designed to improve the health and well-being of mothers and children through health education, preventive healthcare, and medical support. It reflects our unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and our belief that healthier families build stronger communities,” he said.

He noted that the success of the programme was made possible through the collaboration of 16 Rotary Clubs and Rotaract Clubs across the state, describing the partnership as a demonstration of Rotary’s collective strength in addressing critical healthcare challenges.

Chinedu also expressed appreciation to Rotarians, Rotaractors, healthcare professionals, volunteers, donors, and development partners whose contributions ensured the success of the initiative.

He further acknowledged individuals and organizations that attended his recent installation ceremony and purchased Charity Gate Passes, revealing that proceeds from the event had already been invested in impactful community development projects.

“We will continue to implement programmes that promote quality healthcare, community development, and sustainable humanitarian service throughout the 2026–2027 Rotary year, in line with Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self,” he added.

As part of the outreach, medical practitioner Dr. Ahoma Mbanuzuru delivered a health talk titled, “Healthy Mothers, Healthy Children: Building Strong Families Through Community Participation.”

She emphasized the importance of regular antenatal care, safe childbirth, exclusive breastfeeding, childhood immunisation, balanced nutrition, proper hygiene, family planning, and disease prevention, urging expectant and nursing mothers to adopt healthy practices that would guarantee better outcomes for both mothers and children.

The outreach underscores Rotary’s continued commitment to strengthening community healthcare and supporting initiatives that improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations.