Nearly half Adolescent girls suffer from anemia, lack of access to health and Nutrition services in pregnancy – UNICEF

By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi 

The  Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Bauchi Field Office Dr. Tushar Rane has said that nearly half of adolescent girls in UNICEF programme countries suffer from anemia and lack access to essential health and nutrition services in the event of pregnancy.

Dr Tushar stated this in a welcome remarks at a two-day Media Dialogue on Investing in Women, as part of activities to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day held on Wednesday, 6th March 2024 at Evolution Hotel, Gombe, Gombe State.

According to him, when women are endowed with the right knowledge, they can effectively lead or participate in community health initiatives, such as vaccination campaigns for the good of the community. 

He noted that the involvement of women fosters community cohesion and increases the effectiveness of health interventions, adding that investing in the health, rights, and wellbeing of adolescent girls generates a transformative ripple effect that uplifts entire nations.

 “As you will later learn from the presentations by my colleagues and other resource persons, the investment in women through the mama2mama initiative, including strengthening women’s knowledge of community health systems has contributed to positive health outcomes in these states.”

“I welcome you all to this media dialogue commemorating 2024 International Women’s Day, themed Invest in Women- Accelerate progress. International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8 honours the achievements of women and promotes women’s rights worldwide.”

” Ensuring gender equality and promoting women’s well-being in all facets of life is paramount for building prosperous economies and fostering a healthy planet.The International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead.” 

“It’s a day to honor the trailblazing women who have paved the way for future generations, a day to recognize the invaluable contributions of women in every sphere of society, from politics and business to science, arts, and beyond.”

“Specifically, here today, we gather to learn of the remarkable achievements of community-based women in the health sector in our field office states – Bauchi, Gombe and Taraba through the mama2mama initiative.”

“Women often act as health advocates and educators within their communities. They raise awareness about health issues and encourage community members to seek healthcare when needed. I am delighted to know that we have among us female members of the adolescent health clubs, established by UNICEF in Bauchi state.” 

“Adolescent girls’ rights worldwide are under threat, with progress on key issues either stagnating or regressing on a global scale. In the face of challenges such as the ongoing global economic crisis, political turmoil, and humanitarian emergencies, adolescent girls are often overlooked, exploited, or placed in precarious situations.”

“Shockingly, one in seven girls in developing countries is married before reaching the age of 15. Moreover, adolescent girls continue to face elevated risks of sexual violence.” 

“If present trajectories persist, the number of girls and women living in extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa is projected to increase by 2030.”

“By providing adolescent girls with the necessary support, access, and opportunities to realize their potential, we enable them to become formidable agents of change. Empowered girls can play a crucial role in tackling some of the most pressing global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and conflict,” he said. 

He said that their contributions pave the way for inclusive and sustainable development, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Tushar then urged journalists to use their wide-reaching media platforms to set the public and political agenda for the wellbeing of women and adolescent girls.