In an effort to address the prevalent issue of fistula disorder (Vesicovaginal fistula) in the West African region, Nigeria and seven other member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have received $1.96 million.
The ECOWAS Gender Development Centre disbursed a total of $1.96 million, with each of the eight countries, including Nigeria, receiving $245,000 each. The beneficiary nations also include Togo, Benin, Guinea Bissau, Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, Gambia, and Liberia.
The presentation of cheques to the recipient countries took place during the 91st Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers held in Abuja, marking a significant step in addressing health challenges affecting women in the region.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, highlighted the economic challenges facing the region, including inflation, high food prices, and currency devaluation, which have adversely affected economies.
What He Said
He stressed the need for prudent financial management and urged Council Ministers to support efforts aimed at blocking financial leakages to ensure judicious use of available resources.
Tuggar acknowledged the importance of addressing economic challenges, emphasising the impact on gross domestic product, revenue generation, and the mobilisation of the Community Levy due to currency devaluation.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, raised concerns about the challenges faced in levy collection, noting that some member states under sanctions have ceased remitting levies.
Touray emphasised the crucial role of financial resources in addressing the region’s challenges and urged the Council of Ministers to mobilise the levy fully to implement community work programs and sustain ECOWAS successes.
The situation underscores the need for collaborative efforts to overcome financial constraints and advance the collective goals of ECOWAS in the face of growing tasks and difficulties.
What you should know
The annual obstetric fistula incidence is estimated at 2.11 per 1000 births. Fistula disorders are more prevalent in Northern Nigeria than the Southern Nigeria.
Obstetric fistula accounts for 84%-100% of vesicovaginal fistula and prolonged obstructed labour is the most common cause.