UNICEF Engages Katsina Religious Leaders for Child Health

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has mobilized Imams, pastors, and other religious leaders from the 34 local government areas of Katsina State to support child health initiatives, including vaccination and nutrition. This effort was launched during the unveiling of UNICEF’s Faith for Life initiative, which aims to utilize scriptural teachings from the Bible and Qur’an to enhance child survival and development.

Dr Ogu Enemaku, UNICEF's Social and Behavioural Change Specialist, emphasized the importance of religious leaders in disseminating health-related messages during sermons and community engagements. Amaka Aninta, Deputy Director at the National Orientation Agency, urged these leaders to advocate for vaccination and antenatal care to prevent avoidable deaths among mothers and children.

Dr Shema’u Kabir Abba, Acting Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Primary Health Care Agency, recognized the critical role of religious leaders as advocates for positive behavioral change in healthcare. The initiative seeks to strengthen healthcare delivery and improve maternal and child health outcomes in the state.