Women’s health pivotal to a sustainable Africa — Expert

By Eniola Elewude

A maternal health expert, Dr Victory Njoku, says women’s health should be a priority and not be considered a luxury.

Njoku, who spoke in Abuja ahead of the forthcoming event titled “Her Health, Her Power Conference 2026”, said a sustainable Africa could not be built without healthy women.

According to her, women remain the backbone of the society; therefore, healthier women mean healthier nations.

The conference, which is scheduled for Aug. 20 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, will focus on addressing the challenges related to advancing maternal health, as well as the emotional and mental well-being of women in Africa.

The theme of the conference “Leading with Wellness for a Sustainable Africa’’ reflects the subtly hidden truth that a sustainable Africa cannot be built without healthy women.

Njoku, who is also the Founder, Vickyheldan Empowerment Foundation, said that the event would attract distinguished African leaders.

She said the conference would also attract former heads of state, first ladies, healthcare experts, and all stakeholders committed to advancing women’s and girls’ health, wellbeing, and leadership across continents.

Chuks Anyaduba, President of the International Initiative for Advancement of SDGs in Africa (IiASDG), commended the Vickyheldan Empowerment Foundation’s initiative, describing it as apt and laudable.

“We are delighted to be partners in this event especially since maternal health stands at the core burners of this conference.

“It also encourages women in decision making and leadership positions to spearhead and highlight women’s maternal and reproductive health.

“The focus of the conference, which highlights SDG 3 as it concerns maternal and child health, is a deal changer that will directly redefine and sharpen the mindset of women in leadership positions.

“It will also encourage women to take up leadership positions and will redefine grassroots and community engagement across Africa,” Anyaduba said.

On her part, Princess Akawor-Dolor, Founder of the Princess Thyroid Awareness Initiative, said women’s health could not be discussed without addressing thyroid health, as thyroid disorders disproportionately affected women and often went misdiagnosed for years.

“We are honoured to be part of this important conversation and look forward to collaborating with stakeholders who share our vision of a healthier and more empowered Africa,” he said.

Petra Inyamau, representative, Medplus Pharmacist, also commended the initiative.

She said the pharmacy would be represented at the event to conduct some free screening and reproductive health tests on women while advising on next steps and precautions on diagnosed health challenges.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo