Katsina Launches Training Initiative to Curb Maternal, Infant Deaths
By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar
KATSINA, April 18, 2025 – Katsina Times
The Katsina State Government has launched an intensive training programme aimed at reducing maternal and infant mortality by strengthening primary healthcare services and building the capacity of health workers across the state.
The training, held at Hillside Royal Suites in Gidan Dawa, gathered key stakeholders including government officials, health experts, civil society representatives, and international development partners.
The event marked the official rollout of the Maternal Mortality Implementation Initiative (MAMII), a national strategy developed under the Federal Ministry of Health's Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) to combat preventable deaths during childbirth.
Speaking on behalf of the Federal Commissioner, Dr. Muntaka Sadiq Umar, Mr. Omoruyi Iyahen described MAMII as more than a new policy. "It is a nationwide call to action to end avoidable deaths. Katsina is one of the states in dire need of this initiative, with 15 of its 34 local government areas identified as high-risk zones for maternal and infant mortality," he said.
MAMII will focus on improving emergency transport and healthcare access, strengthening the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system, reducing financial barriers to healthcare, and increasing community engagement to identify and support pregnant women.
The programme will also ensure the provision of modern emergency equipment, skilled health workers, and the implementation of a unified planning, budgeting, and reporting system to enhance accountability and impact.
Commending the Katsina State Government’s commitment, Mr. Iyahen applauded Governor Dikko Umar Radda, Health Commissioner Dr. Musa Adamu Funtua, and the Governor’s wife, Hajiya Zulaihat Radda, for their leadership in the health sector.
"I believe Katsina is well-positioned to be a model for other states. With continued collaboration, we expect significant improvement by the end of 2026," he added.
Hajiya Zulaihat Radda reaffirmed her commitment to advancing maternal and child health, pledging continued advocacy and awareness campaigns across the state. Commissioner Funtua also highlighted the government’s plan to equip health facilities with modern tools and trained personnel.
The training is part of a broader national healthcare reform initiative launched in 2023, designed to empower states to tailor health strategies to local needs. Katsina is expected to be among the leading states in the fight against maternal and infant deaths in Nigeria.
If fully implemented, MAMII could bring significant improvements to maternal and child health outcomes in Katsina by 2026.
