From Ifeoma Ejiofor
Justice Development Peace Caritas (JDPC) of Nnewi Catholic Diocese has partnered Ward Development Committees(WDCs), the officers in charge of Primary Health Centres and others on Strengthening Public Accountability for Results and Knowledge (SPARK 11)
The capacity strengthening session organized under the Strengthening public Accountability for Results and knowledge (SPARK 11) project, supported by International Budget Partnership (IBP) and implemented in Collaboration with the community and Empowerment Network (COMEN) and the Civil Right concern(CRC).
The program seeks to contribute to improved quality of services at PHCs improved maternal health care outcomes while scaling up government responsiveness and accountability in the BHCPE from the lens of a gender and intersectionality.
In his speech, Rev Fr Benedict China Okolo, Director, JDPC Nnewi said that the initiative reflects the shared commitment of the groups to the strengthening the primary Healthcare System in Anambra State.
Rev Fr Okolo identified the maternal and child healthcare as the entry point for broader system and wide improvements.
He noted that the gathering was a vital step in empowering all concerned to confront the realities, leverage the opportunities, and address the challenges within the healthcare system.
“The role of capacity building in this regard cannot be overstated. A System is only as strong as the people who operate it, and today’s session is designed to equip you with the knowledge, tools and strategies needed to navigate complex public Finance Management (PFM) issues.
“In addition, we must address the immunization scares that have recently disrupted trust in our healthcare System. Misconception and fears pose significant threats to the gain we had made.
“As community leaders and health workers, you are uniquely positioned to rebuild trust, dispel misinformation,and foster a mindset shift that prioritizes preventive care, immunization, and collective responsibility for health outcomes.
“The challenges we face whether in funding, system inefficiencies, or societal resistance are undeniable. However, so are opportunities. Anambra has the potential to be a model for other states in Nigeria, demonstrating how effective collaboration, capacity building, and community ownership can transform healthcare delivery,” Rev Fr Okolo asserted.
Ugochi Ehiahuruike, IBP SPARK 11 COMEN Consultant,Dr Ngozi Okeke, Igboekweze Chizoba presented papers at the state wide 2 Days capacity training workshop