UNICEF, in collaboration with the Cross River State community, has launched a Social and Behavior Change (SBC) initiative to improve family health and childcare practices across the state.
Speaking at the event at Pamol House Four, Akim Akim on Monday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Mr. Anthony Okon, commended UNICEF for implementing the programme despite funding challenges. Represented by Programme Officer Mr. Nakanda Iyadim, Okon assured the Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote positive social behaviour, especially in key areas such as routine immunization, antenatal care, birth registration, exclusive breastfeeding, and complementary feeding.
UNICEF representative Miss Blessing Ebere-Chukwu in her speech emphasized that community involvement is crucial for the success of the SBC programme, urging stakeholders to actively participate in promoting health-conscious behaviours.
The State Director National Orientation agency represented by the deputy director Ms Juliana Atialikong in her speech, encouraged women to prioritize hospital visits during pregnancy and childbirth, emphasizing that every child should have a birth certificate and that a National Population Commission registrar, Mr. Bassey Otu, was present to facilitate birth registration during the programme.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Community leader, Chief Emmanuel Akpakpan, appreciated the State Government and UNICEF for selecting their community as a beneficiary of the programme, noting that the exercise has improved the health and welfare of women and children, appealing for continued support for the community.
During her pep talk on complementary feeding, Ms Ogar Winifred a representative of a the Cross River state Primary healthcare development agency urged parents to ensure their children receive Vitamin A supplements and keep good breast feeding practices. She also encouraged inclusion of fruits and vegetables in children’s diets.
Children with birth certificates and complete routine immunization cards were recognized and rewarded upon display of their cards and certificates.
The programme is already being rolled out in 10 selected communities, with plans for broader coverage in the coming months to ensure sustainable improvements in family and child health.
Alicent Obriku
