Transforming Together Maternal Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Summit

Theme: Transforming Together Maternal Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Summit 

Organizers: Eden Ventures 

Objective: 

The summit aimed to explore innovative strategies to enhance maternal, newborn, and child health, focusing on mental health support for mothers, improving healthcare infrastructure, and increasing awareness. 

Moderators: Nabeela, Zainab 

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Salma Anas, Special Advisor to the President on Health and Former Commissioner of Health Sokoto 

Summary: 

On March 22, 2024, the Transforming Together Maternal Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Summit, convened by Eden Ventures, addressed critical issues in maternal, newborn, and child health. Co-moderated by Nabeela and Zainab, the summit commenced with a keynote address by Dr. Salma Anas. Dr. Salma emphasized collaboration between the public and private sectors and improving primary healthcare infrastructure. She applauded the involvement of young individuals like Nabeela in combating maternal and child mortality, highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.  

Panel Discussions: 

1. Innovative Approaches to Address Maternal Mortality: 

Panelists advocated for strengthening healthcare systems, increasing grassroots awareness, and engaging traditional leaders to champion maternal health causes. 

2. Importance of Accurate Education and Enlightenment: 

Discussions centered on the impact of accurate data on MNCH planning, highlighting concerns about misinformation. Panelists stressed empathy in healthcare delivery and addressed challenges posed by misinformation in the private sector. 

3. Information Dissemination and Research on MNCH: 

Panelists shared insights into infertility, stressing the need for increased funding and awareness. Discussions also covered the importance of sex education, access to contraceptives, and addressing cultural beliefs surrounding maternal health.

Panelist During the panel discussion.

Key Recommendations:

  1. Improving Healthcare Infrastructure: Prioritize equipping primary healthcare centers to enhance maternal and child health services.  2. Collaborative Partnerships: Foster collaboration between public and private sectors to address gaps in healthcare delivery. 

3. Data Accuracy: Ensure accurate collection and dissemination of MNCH data for effective planning and decision-making. 

4. Increased Awareness: Conduct grassroots campaigns to educate communities on maternal health, contraception, and family planning. 

5. Mental Health Support: Provide comprehensive mental health support for pregnant women to combat postpartum depression.

Conclusion: 

The Transforming Together MNCH Summit provided a platform for robust discussions and valuable insights into addressing maternal, newborn, and child health challenges. By fostering collaboration, promoting awareness, and leveraging innovative approaches, stakeholders are poised to make significant strides in improving healthcare outcomes for women and children across Nigeria.