By Chinedum Treasure
The Malaria Eradication and Safe Health Initiative (MESHI) has urged stakeholders to sustain the gains recorded under its Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) project in three local government areas of Anambra State.
Executive Director of MESHI, Prof. Dennis Aribodor, made the call at the project’s close-out ceremony, implemented in partnership with Jhpiego and the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP).
The intervention covered Aguata, Idemili South and Ogbaru Local Government Areas, focusing on improving access to integrated reproductive health services, community awareness and referral systems between healthcare facilities and communities.
Aribodor said the completion of the project should not end efforts to address sexual and reproductive health challenges, citing stigma, misinformation and inadequate awareness as barriers to accessing essential healthcare.
He identified youths, women seeking family planning services and survivors of gender-based violence as key beneficiaries requiring continued attention and support.
He urged government agencies, healthcare workers, civil society organisations and community leaders to sustain awareness campaigns, strengthen referrals and ensure confidential and respectful healthcare delivery.
The MESHI boss also called for accurate media reporting to tackle stigma, correct misinformation and educate communities about available health services.
He acknowledged gaps in public awareness, service accessibility, data documentation and healthcare workers’ capacity, urging stakeholders to develop practical measures to preserve the project’s achievements.
Aribodor appreciated the Anambra State Government, particularly the Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, as well as Jhpiego, NASCP, healthcare workers and community leaders for their contributions.
He said MESHI had implemented health interventions for over 20 years in partnership with organisations including the World Health Organisation, Global Fund, UNICEF, Society for Family Health and Malaria Consortium.
Tags: MESHI, Sexual and Reproductive Health, Anambra Health
