Uyo, Akwa Ibom State — In a strategic move to bridge healthcare gaps for the elderly, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, Marro Healthcare Initiative, a duly registered non-governmental organization, paid an advocacy visit to the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs on a mission to foster impactful collaborations.
Founded with the vision of building a society where older people thrive without barriers or discrimination, Marro Healthcare Initiative is committed to promoting inclusive, affordable, and accessible healthcare services. The organization focuses on creating tailored support systems that empower the elderly and persons with disabilities to live dignified and healthy lives.
Highlighting the Gaps
During the meeting, the delegation led by Mrs. Sandra Kekapoh, alongside members Kufremfon Bassey, Obot Sunday, and Helen Helen Nya, outlined pressing challenges facing the elderly and other marginalized groups in the state.
Key concerns raised included:
- Limited Access to Healthcare: Many elderly people face significant barriers to accessing quality healthcare, which worsens health disparities. The organization revealed findings from a recent medical outreach in Kabusa village, where over 70% of the elderly population had dangerously high blood pressure and sugar levels—conditions they were previously unaware of.
- Discrimination and Stigma: Age-related bias often marginalizes older persons, further limiting their access to healthcare and social services. In some cases, when ministries call for palliative distributions, only a handful—or sometimes none—of the elderly show up due to lack of inclusion.
- Inadequate Funding: Insufficient resources to fund healthcare programs targeting the elderly and vulnerable groups make interventions less effective. The inability to afford medical care or social services continues to be a major barrier for many.
Innovative Solutions Proposed
The Marro Healthcare Initiative put forward bold proposals aimed at transforming elderly care in the state. These include:
- Establishing a Care Home for elderly individuals requiring expert care and comfort.
- Setting up a Halfway Home for stranded persons in need of urgent support.
According to the group, these services are long overdue in the region and are vital for any society that prioritizes human dignity.
Alignment with Global Development Goals
The organization’s initiatives are rooted in the belief that inclusive healthcare is a human right, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 5, and 10. Marro Healthcare Initiative also emphasized the need to value older people’s contributions to society and foster partnerships between NGOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
A Warm Reception from the Ministry
Arriving at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs at 9:30 a.m., the team was received by Mr. Ben, a staff member of the Commission. The meeting with the Hon. Commissioner, Princess Emem Ibanga, and her team was marked by optimism and a shared vision.
The Commissioner expressed strong enthusiasm for the partnership, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of the elderly. She pointed to the ongoing construction of a state-of-the-art shelter home for elderly persons as proof of the government’s dedication.
A Visit to the Elderly Shelter Home Construction Site
At 2:30 p.m., the Marro Healthcare team, accompanied by Mr. Prince Edwin, Director of Administration, toured the construction site managed by U\&K Limited. Site manager Mr. Owoidoho James guided the delegation through the facilities, which will include:
- Medical sections for the sick
- A fully stocked pharmacy
- Waiting rooms and nursing stations
- Laundry and lounge areas
- A general kitchen and dining hall
- A gym center for physical wellness
- An arts and crafts room
- A chapel
- A council room for elderly meetings
- A mini supermarket
Describing the project as “an impressive and much-needed development,” Mrs. Kekapoh commended the Ministry for taking concrete steps towards enhancing elderly care in Akwa Ibom State.
A Shared Commitment to the Future
The meeting concluded with a group photograph and a vote of thanks from Mrs. Kekapoh, who expressed optimism that this partnership would pave the way for transformative healthcare services in the state.
“This is more than an advocacy visit; it’s the beginning of a long-term partnership to ensure that no elderly person or vulnerable group is left behind,” she stated.
With the Ministry’s willingness to collaborate and Marro Healthcare Initiative’s unwavering commitment, the future looks promising for inclusive healthcare in Akwa Ibom State.
