NAOMPON|28 May 2017
Second Chance Initiative (SCI) in collaboration with Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) and Aurora Loreli Nigeria Ltd is currently carrying out a massive medical outreach in Cross River State’s rural communities.
The events, which commenced on Friday are part of buildup of activities ahead of international menstrual hygiene day scheduled to hold in Ikom of Cross River State on Sunday.
The non-profit non-governmental organization setup in 2009 to respond to the increasing sexual and reproductive health needs of young people in sub-Sahara Africa is carrying out, among other things free treatment of ailments including malaria, typhoid and administration of treatment of early stage of cancer while also carrying out inspections for lumps in the breast, cervical cancer screening; alongside sensitization of all the ailments characterized around the human reproductive circle.
Flagging off the event in Okuni community of Cross River, Dr. Linda Ayade, wife of Cross River Governor represented by Dr. Nchewi Ani, who is chairman of Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) in Cross River said the event is geared towards breaking the silence on female sexuality, which is hitherto considered taboo in Africa.
“We have decided to break the silence on menstruation in Cross River State; we have decided to break through the taboos that surround menstruation, especially in the central senatorial district.”
“The outing shall help female of rural communities to take charge of their reproductive right; because if you have it right at this stage of your life you will have it right through out your reproductive circle.”
On her part, Cross River Commissioner of Health, Dr. Inyang Asibong said sexuality among women in the state is discussed in hush tune and so holding such event in rural communities of the state marks a departure point from sexuality repressive era.
Speaking earlier, Mrs. Lillian Oyama, the Executive Director of SCI said because of the perception about sexuality in sub-Saharan Africa parents find it difficult teaching children about their reproductive wellbeing; and so children get to learn about it online, which exposes them to risk.
Hence, SCI thought it wise to take up the initiative of educating people of sub-Saharan Africa to address issues of reproductive health.
The flag off of the event saw wife of former Cross River Governor, Mrs. Onari Duke donation of Cryo machine, a machine used to treat the early stage of cervical cancer.
Partners of the event include United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); Mediatrix Development Foundation; Cross River Ministry of Health and Primary Healthcare Agency; Made Studios; alongside supports from host communities.
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