UNICEF Partners Imo State in Bold Move to Secure Health of Mothers and Babies
Efforts to improve maternal and child nutrition in Imo State are gaining fresh momentum. UNICEF, the Imo State Government, and partners are deepening collaboration on health and child welfare programmes.
The initiative receives support from the Gates Foundation. It focuses on stronger nutrition systems, better maternal care, behaviour change strategies, and access to essential supplements for pregnant women.
Juliet Chiluwe, UNICEF Chief of Enugu Field Office, said the programme targets preventable risks affecting mothers and children. These include anaemia, low birth weight, and stillbirths. She stressed that early nutrition support is vital for child development.
She also described Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) as a cost-effective solution. It improves maternal health and supports safer pregnancies. However, she called for stronger government ownership to sustain results.
Experts say nutrition programmes also play a child safeguarding role. They support survival, healthy growth, and early development.
With proper nutrition, pregnant women increase the chance of healthy births. This reduces risks linked to early health complications and poor development outcomes.
Chioma Egu, Imo State Commissioner for Health, said the Social Behaviour Change (SBC) strategy will promote healthier family habits. These begin from pregnancy and continue through childhood.
She added that the strategy covers maternal nutrition, breastfeeding, hygiene, and proper use of health services.
Furthermore, integrating MMS ensures pregnant women understand its importance. It also improves compliance with supplementation programmes.
Egu noted that awareness remains crucial, especially in rural communities. Many people still lack access to basic health information.
Stakeholders at the meeting called for stronger local funding. They also urged better coordination among partners to sustain progress.
Anslem Anyanwu, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, reaffirmed government support. He said the state will back the initiative through policy and resource mobilisation.
Child protection advocates say maternal nutrition is a foundation for child wellbeing. They stressed that early care during pregnancy shapes long-term health and development.
