By Kelvin Ololo
Prompted by the persistent challenges faced by women in rural communities during childbirth and traditional practices that restrict access to antenatal care and immunization for children under two years of age, the Cross River State Mobilization and Technical Committee (SOMTEC), has concluded plans to take program to Akpabuyo and Odukpani Local Government Areas of the state.
This was reached after a series of in-house training sessions with its members to enhance their capacity and knowledge regarding the rights of mothers and children.
The training which is part of the periodic coordination meetings of SOMTEC, focused on life-saving practices during the critical first one thousand days of a child’s life, was held at the Ministry of Information Conference Hall, Calabar.
Speaking at the convocation, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Ntunkae Offiong Ani Offiong, emphasized the importance of the training in building a strong team equipped with the necessary knowledge to confront cultural practices that may hinder access to essential maternal and child health services.
She pointed out that the shared experiences from seasoned partners, including challenges encountered during previous state programs by the then implementing agency, would provide a foundation for improving responsibilities moving forward.
“As partners, I urge you to take this work seriously, recognizing that your efforts are not for UNICEF but for the safety of our children, mothers, and sisters.
“UNICEF does not have a child in Cross River, but we do, either directly or indirectly. As you go out into the field, remember that you are working to protect our children and their mothers.”
She noted that for a better society, parents and guardians must ensure balanced training and upbringing of their children. cautioning against giving undue preference to one gender, as it may foster a sense of superiority among children.
In his presentation, the SOMTEC Desk Officer at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Mr. William Arikpo, said “denying a child the first right of citizenship through birth registration is a violation of their rights,” and emphasized the essential role of family practices in ensuring a child’s survival.
He stressed the importance of gender equality and urged members to resist any community tendencies depriving women and children of their rights to life.
In his remarks, the State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. John Asanye, assured members of the full support of law enforcement agencies, should they encounter discrimination while engaging with communities.
He commended the Ministry of Information for mandating refresher training for all members, especially newcomers and expressed optimism that the upcoming community engagement exercise would be highly successful given the quality of training the members have received.
There were also presentations from other resource persons including Prof. Patrick Ineji and Mr. Steven Ajom from UNICEF, sharing expertise on the discussion and providing further insights into members’ expectations during the field exercises.
The team is made of professionals drawn from different backgrounds, endeavors; various ministries, departments, agencies, academy, health and media.
The highlight of the training was a question and answer segment and group photograph.
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