In a major step toward improving maternal healthcare, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, alongside his deputy, Ngo Josephine Piyo, has launched the distribution of Safe Delivery Kits, also known as Mama Kits, to primary healthcare centers across the state. The initiative, which aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates, was officially launched on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Primary Healthcare Clinic in Mista Ali, Bassa Local Government Area.
The distribution of these kits is implemented by the Plateau State Primary Health Care Board. While the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) project were also out to inspect ongoing revitalization at PHC in Mista Ali which is part of the 82 being revitalized.
Addressing healthcare staff, ward development committees, and women’s groups at the event, Governor Mutfwang highlighted the administration’s commitment to enhancing maternal health services and ensuring safer childbirth experiences for women across the state.
Strengthening Primary Healthcare
As part of broader efforts to improve healthcare services, Governor Mutfwang announced that contracts have been awarded for the renovation and re-equipment of 82 primary healthcare centers across Plateau State, with at least four facilities per local government area undergoing significant upgrades. The renovations include the provision of fencing, motorized boreholes, solar power installations, and two-bedroom staff quarters to ensure round-the-clock availability of medical personnel.
Speaking to journalists, Nurse Kizito Ndak, Project Manager of the IMPACT initiative in Plateau State, emphasized the importance of the project in addressing key healthcare challenges. He explained that the availability of Safe Delivery Kits would encourage more women to seek professional medical care during childbirth, reducing cases of home deliveries and complications arising from unassisted births.
“The launch of these delivery kits by His Excellency ensures that even women who cannot afford essential birthing supplies will have access to safe delivery materials provided by the government. Our goal is to prevent maternal and infant deaths by ensuring that all expectant mothers give birth in well-equipped healthcare facilities,” Ndak stated.
About the IMPACT Project
The IMPACT project is a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at improving primary healthcare services, with a focus on malaria prevention, immunization, healthcare awareness, and emergency response. In Plateau State, the project is playing a crucial role in enhancing maternal and child health services by expanding access to medical resources and upgrading healthcare infrastructure.
The launch of the Safe Delivery Kits marks a significant milestone in the state government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and protect the lives of pregnant women and newborns. Governor Mutfwang urged women in Mista Ali and surrounding communities to take full advantage of the improved healthcare services and assured continued government support for maternal and child health initiatives.
