Bauchi, partners distribute 4m treated nets to residents to prevent malaria in pregnancy, U-5 children

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By Akanji Alowoludo, Bauchi

No fewer than 4 million treated nets representing 95% were distributed in Bauchi state through the Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis/Leprosy and Malaria (BACATMA) and its Partners implementing the 2023 ITN Distribution Campaign (GHSC-PSM and BA-N). 

The figure was arrived at after the implementating partners met and reviewed the just concluded exercise which was conducted simultaneously with the Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) in the State.

A statement from BACATMA signed by the Executive Chairman, Dr Sani Mohammed Dambam contained that, “It is gratifying to note that; the exercise was a huge success despite some pockets of challenges in some areas.” 

BACATMA stressed that, “The Preliminary Reports indicated that over 4 Million Nets (above 95%) were successfully distributed (it is still on-going) to the good people of Bauchi State from all nooks and crannies of the State across all social strata of life.” 

According to the BACATMA EC, “However, there were still some few cases of delays in commencement, disruptions, chaos, thefts, shortages and violence but with no loss of life. These challenges were considered mild and expected when carrying out a large-scale intervention like this one.” 

“Similarly, this Campaign is a success when compared with the 2010 Campaign which resulted in loss of Seven lives and serious violence. The Agency in collaboration of relevant stakeholders had addressed most of these challenges,” he added.

He then stated that,”We therefore wish to enjoin the beneficiaries to utilize their Nets appropriately. We equally; wish to call on those who were unable to receive the Nets to wait patiently as there will be a package for make-up in the pipeline.” 

Sani Mohammed Danbam added that, “On this note, the Agency and its Partners wish to thank the Governor of Bauchi State, Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed and the First Lady of Bauchi State, Aisha Bala Mohammed (who is also the Nets Ambassador), the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Auwal Jatau, Speaker of BAHA and his Members, SSG, CoS , the PS BSMOH, the CEOs of Bauchi State Health MDAS, the Caretaker Chairmen and their Members, the Traditional and Religious Leaders, the Healthcare Workers of the LGAS, our Ad-hoc Staff, the Press and the entire good people of Bauchi State.”