By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The Borno State Government has expressed gratitude to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for its immense support in addressing the recent cholera outbreak in the state.
The outbreak, which was declared on October 4th, 2024, has affected four local government areas, including MMC, Jere, Konduga, Mafa, and Monguno, with over 450 suspected cases reported.
UNICEF’s Deputy Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Rownak Khan, highlighted that Borno State has experienced recurrent cholera outbreaks since 2009, with the current outbreak being the latest.
She emphasized that UNICEF has been actively involved in the response efforts, providing critical support in risk communication, hygiene promotion, safe water supply, cholera vaccination, and case management services.
As part of its support, UNICEF donated medications and equipment worth N100 million to the Borno State Government. These donations include 30 Acute Watery Diarrhea (AWD) kits, 50 cholera beds, and other essential items.
Additionally, UNICEF has supported other critical activities, such as the construction of emergency latrines, disinfection of schools, and hygiene promotion. The organization has also mobilized resources for critical activities, including coordination of response, cholera vaccination campaigns, and provision of health services in IDP camps.
The state government, represented by the Special Adviser to the Government on Health Matters, Dr. Abubakar Hassan, commended UNICEF’s rapid response and assistance, which has been instrumental in preventing and managing the disease.
The government also acknowledged the long-standing cordial working relationship with UNICEF, which has spanned over a decade.
The state government assured that these donations would be judiciously used to boost case management and save lives.
