By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
Bayelsa State, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), has embarked on a comprehensive healthcare improvement initiative.
The project, which has been ongoing for three years, aims to enhance healthcare accessibility by renovating and upgrading primary healthcare centers across the state.
Dr. Egbe Abe, UNICEF Health Specialist from the Port Harcourt Field Office, highlighted the significant progress made. He noted that the collaboration has supported the state government in renovating and upgrading ten health facilities, making healthcare more accessible to the people.
The tour, which visited Zarama and Yenegwe Primary Health Care Centers in Yenagoa Local Government Area, showcased the transformation of these facilities.
The communities expressed gratitude for the facelift, which included fencing, painting, and expansion, leading to a significant increase in the number of women and children accessing healthcare services.
The Executive Secretary of Bayelsa Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Williams Appah, emphasized the improvements observed in all the facilities visited.
He highlighted the employment of over two thousand healthcare workers and the engagement of over eight hundred GAVI-supported workers. The state government has also approved the employment of healthcare workers in the Primary Health Care services.
The project aims to ensure that healthcare facilities are functional, increase humanity, and enhance healthcare development in Bayelsa State. The communities were advised to utilize the facilities provided by the government and upgraded by UNICEF and GAVI, along with other development partners.
The tour included visits to facilities in Otuoke, Elebele, and other locations, demonstrating the state’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and services. The initiative is a testament to the successful collaboration between Bayelsa State, UNICEF, GAVI, and other stakeholders in enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality.
