The Bayelsa State Non-Governmental Organisations Forum (BANGOF) has launched a cholera prevention campaign in Okaka and Ekeki communities of Yenagoa, intensifying efforts to curb the spread of cholera and other waterborne diseases in the state capital.The sensitization outreach, held in the two communities, focused on educating residents about practical and effective preventive measures. Participants were taught the importance of regular handwashing with soap and clean water, proper waste disposal, safe food handling practices, and the use of clean and safe drinking water.Addressing community members, BANGOF Chairman, Mr. Taritein Boco, explained that cholera is mainly transmitted through contaminated food and water. He emphasized that improved personal hygiene and collective community responsibility are critical to preventing outbreaks.“Community sensitization is a powerful tool in preventing disease outbreaks,” Boco said. “Many cholera cases can be avoided through simple and consistent hygiene practices.”
He urged residents to be vigilant and recognize common symptoms of cholera, such as vomiting and rice-water-like stool, stressing the need for immediate medical attention when such signs appear.“Delay in seeking treatment can be fatal. Everyone must take responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean and avoiding contaminated water sources,” he warned.Also speaking at the event, Lady Eunice Nnachi, Executive Director of the Women Organized for Mentorship and Advocacy Network (WOMAN), highlighted the disproportionate impact of cholera outbreaks on women and children.She noted that women, who are often responsible for food preparation and caregiving, play a crucial role in disease prevention within households. According to her, equipping women with accurate health information is essential to protecting families and communities.
Similarly, Princess Elizabeth Egbe, Chief Executive Officer of Global Care Rescue Mission, encouraged participants to extend the awareness campaign beyond the outreach venue.She urged residents to share the information with neighbors, family members, and friends, noting that information sharing is particularly important in densely populated areas, where diseases can spread rapidly.In a related sensitization exercise in Nembe Local Government Area, BANGOF Secretary, Mr. Inatimi Odio, advised residents to prioritize regular handwashing, describing it as one of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent cholera and other waterborne illnesses.
The outreach activities in Okaka and Ekeki communities build on earlier BANGOF interventions carried out in Sagbama and Nembe Local Government Areas, aimed at reducing public health risks associated with poor sanitation and unsafe water.BANGOF reiterated its commitment to working with government agencies, community leaders, health professionals, and civil society organizations to promote public health awareness and foster healthier communities across Bayelsa State.The forum stressed that sustained community engagement and preventive education remain vital in addressing cholera risks, especially during periods of increased vulnerability linked to flooding and poor sanitation.
