A one-day gathering of Maternal Health Champions, aimed at enhancing maternal and child healthcare delivery across Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs). This initiative is part of the SPARK II project (Strengthening Public Accountability for Results and Knowledge), which seeks to foster community-led engagement, accountability, and citizen participation in healthcare.
The program is led by Justice Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC), Nnewi, in collaboration with Community Empowerment Network (COMEN) and Civil Rights Concern (CRC). Together, these organizations are working to ensure that community voices shape maternal health policies and service delivery in Anambra.
The meeting brought together Ward Development Committees (WDCs), other community members. They were trained to serve as Maternal Health Champions, acting as vital links between the community and healthcare providers. The champions are expected to raise awareness about maternal health, reduce barriers to accessing care, and encourage timely utilization of healthcare services.
Onyekachi Ololo: Driving Change from the Grassroots, JDPC’s SPARK II Program Manager, described the gathering as a meeting of champions, advocates, and accountability actors. He emphasized that these Maternal Health Champions will be at the frontline of change raising awareness, breaking down barriers, and encouraging timely use of healthcare services.
Ololo further explained that the initiative is not just about health, but about system change. By placing communities at the center, SPARK II is ensuring that health delivery is inclusive, gender-sensitive, and rooted in citizen participation.
Both speakers echoed a shared message: for maternal and child healthcare to improve in Anambra, communities must take ownership of their Primary Healthcare Centre. With citizens empowered as champions, PHCs can better respond to local needs, and no mother, child, or vulnerable group will be left behind.
