The Wellbeing Foundation Africa

As part of our evaluation and assessment process for the Dettol Nigeria Hygiene Quest program, we recently held our quarterly stakeholder engagement meetings for the second and third quarters in Abuja, Lagos, and Kwara State, respectively. These engagements served as platforms to provide comprehensive updates on the program’s activities and progress while fostering meaningful dialogue and gathering valuable feedback from implementing healthcare facilities, schools, and communities. Across the three states, the meetings brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Hospital Management Board, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, schools, and community leaders, who shared their insights and experiences regarding the program’s impact. The engagements highlighted the successes of the program so far and identified areas where we need to focus our efforts to bridge existing gaps and drive sustainable change. By working collaboratively with stakeholders, we are advancing our goal of achieving widespread hygiene coverage, promoting improved hygiene practices, and empowering families to champion healthy habits within their environments. #DettolHygieneQuest #HygieneForAll #DHQ

As the year draws to a close, we are thrilled to announce the commencement of the final phase of the Advanced Obstetrics Surgical Skills (AOSS) Training for residents in Lagos State for 2024. Under the Global Health Workforce Programme, this project delivered by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), in collaboration with the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) and supported by the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system by equipping resident doctors with advanced surgical skills to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes. Since its launch in February, the project has successfully trained 82 NPMCN examiners and 118 resident doctors from affiliated institutions across Abuja, Kano, Enugu, and Lagos. This year-long effort reflects a significant step to enhance the surgical skills and decision-making capabilities of obstetrics and gynecology doctors, addressing critical gaps in managing obstetric complications. At the opening session earlier today, participants were introduced to the course objectives and the broader scope of the training. Dr. Oluwole Ayodeji, Faculty Chairman of Obstetrics and Gynecology at NPMCN, encouraged the participants, emphasizing the program’s impact on Nigeria’s healthcare system and its faculty. This project is funded through the Global Health Partnerships (formerly THET), which is funded by the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) for the benefit of the UK and partner country health sectors. Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, DUCIT BLUE SOLUTIONS, World Health Organization Nigeria, World Health Organization African Region, Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Nigeria Health Watch Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria, UK in Nigeria

Protecting newborn health is crucial for their growth and development. Mothers play a central role during these formative stages; therefore, strong foundational education is essential in safeguarding the health of their babies in the earliest days of life. Our #Mamacare360 sessions provide enlightening discussions that equip mothers with the knowledge they need to safeguard their children’s well-being. During one of our postnatal classes, mothers were introduced to the immunisation schedule—a vital tool in ensuring their babies receive protection against preventable diseases. Starting at birth, vaccines like the BCG (to prevent tuberculosis) and the oral polio vaccine set the stage for a lifetime of health. As the months progress, timely vaccinations against measles, diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough help ensure that the child’s immune system is fortified against these illnesses. The session also highlighted the essence of proper nutrition and a balanced diet. A well-nourished child not only grows healthier but also develops stronger immunity, cognitive ability, and physical resilience. Through our Mamacare classes, mothers are empowered with the knowledge to take proactive steps, ensuring their children enjoy a future of good health and well-being. #MaternalMonday #Mamacare360 #MaternalHealth

Awareness is the first step toward action. Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) affects millions of newborns, yet myths and misconceptions often delay critical care. WBFA, with its social impact partner Reckitt, is working to break these barriers through Project Oscar. Our awareness campaigns aim to equip healthcare workers, mothers, and communities with the knowledge to recognise symptoms early, seek timely care, and advocate for improved health services. Join us in spreading the word about NNJ and kernicterus. Together, we can prevent disabilities, improve outcomes, and ensure every child has a healthy start in life. #ProjectOscar #EveryoneIncluded #NeonatalHealth #NNJ #Kernicterus #NeonatalJaundiceAwareness #GlobalHealth  #GlobalGoals #LightforLife

In Reducing the risk of child mortality and birth complications it is important to equip mothers with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. At The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, we recognize the transformative power of education and preparation in safeguarding maternal and child health. During our #Mamacare360 Antenatal Class at Maitama District Hospital Abuja, our #WBFA Nurse Midwife taught expectant mothers lessons on birth preparation and complication readiness. These discussions empowered the mothers to identify potential danger signs early and take proactive measures to protect both their health and their babies’ well-being. A key focus of the session was the critical role husbands play in birth preparation, highlighting how their support emotionally, physically can significantly improve outcomes for mothers and newborns. In addition, during the Dettol Hygiene Quest session, she guided mothers on maintaining optimal cleanliness to protect their health and that of their babies. From proper handwashing techniques to ensuring a hygienic environment, these practical teachings form a strong defense against infections that could compromise maternal and child health. Through these classes, mothers are not only better prepared for childbirth but are also empowered with the skills to raise healthier children, reducing the risks of preventable complications. #FrontlineFriday #maternalhealth #Wellbeingforall

The final day of the Advanced Obstetrics Surgical Skills (AOSS) training at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, marked the culmination of three days of intensive learning, practical sessions, and professional development. The day commenced with the final set of interactive modules, followed by a post- training assessment exercise where participants demonstrated their understanding and proficiency in the key areas covered throughout the training. This assessment served as a vital tool to gauge the knowledge gained and identify areas for continued improvement. Reflecting on the program, Dr. Komommo Okoi Okpebri, Senior Registrar at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, shared: “This training has equipped me with practical skills I can confidently apply in real-life situations. We have been taught how to monitor a woman after delivery, reduce maternal mortality, and address severe morbidities to a large extent.” She further added: “Among the many things taught, we learned about situation awareness and how to report such situations to senior colleagues.” Another participant, Dr. Ezugwu Ifeanyi Anthony, Senior Registrar at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, noted: “With this training, I have learned how to use charts, documents, and the materials provided during the sessions. I encourage the organizers to continue this training, as it benefits not only the doctors but also the patients.” Dr. Amuchechukwu Nwafor, a former trainee and now a facilitator, shared her experience of cascading knowledge to her residents following her completion of the second batch of the “Training of Trainers” program. She explained that the training was conducted in batches, starting with doctors, consultants, and house officers over four days, focusing on modifying early obstetric warning signs. She emphasized their proactive approach, stating: “We didn’t wait for funding; rather, we swung into action.”

Day 2 of the Advanced Obstetrics Surgical Skills #AOSS training at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Enugu began with a reflective recap of the previous day’s sessions, where participants shared their key takeaways. This provided an opportunity to clarify any lingering questions and build a stronger foundation for the day ahead. The participants were then divided into smaller groups, each focusing on critical topics, including peri-operative care, assisted vaginal birth, and surgical obstetric interventions. This hands-on approach allowed for deeper engagement with the course materials and practical application of the skills discussed. One of the key highlights of this three-day training is the quality assurance supervision aimed at evaluating the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) faculty trainers’ ability to deliver and sustain the training once integrated into the curriculum. This supervision plays a crucial role in ensuring the long-term sustainability and scalability of the program, reinforcing the objective of cascading knowledge to future generations of healthcare professionals. Representing the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine #LSTM, Helen Allot, Senior Specialist and Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists | RCOG, UK, is overseeing the training supervision. Her presence proves the program’s commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring that the training will continue to have a lasting impact. This project is funded through the Global Health Partnerships (formerly THET), which is funded by the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) for the benefit of the UK and partner country health sectors. DUCIT BLUE SOLUTIONS, World Health Organization Nigeria, Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Nigeria Health Watch, Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria, World Health Organization African Region, UK in Nigeria

Reflecting on the successful launch of our flagship project – Neonatal Jaundice Screening, Treatment, and Kernicterus Prevention Program (Project OSCAR - Light for Life), we are thrilled to begin this journey. In partnership with our social impact partner Reckitt and sub-partners London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, U. of London, NEST360 and SCIDaR - Solina Centre for International Development and Research the event served as a platform for impactful discussions and actionable commitments aimed at addressing Neonatal Jaundice (NNJ) and preventing kernicterus. Key highlights from the launch included the unveiling of innovative tools and resources designed to empower healthcare workers with the skills and technology needed to diagnose and treat NNJ effectively. Additionally, heartfelt testimonials from families affected by NNJ proved the urgency of our mission and the critical importance of early detection and timely intervention. #ProjectOscar #EveryoneIncluded #NeonatalHealth #NNJ #Kernicterus #NeonatalJaundiceAwareness #GlobalHealth #GlobalGoals #LightforLife

Today at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), in collaboration with the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) and supported by the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), commenced the Advanced Obstetrics and Surgical Skills (AOSS) training for resident doctors. This initiative is designed to enhance maternal and newborn health outcomes across Nigeria and has convened 29 resident doctors from NPMCN-affiliated institutions with eight NPMCN Faculty trainers serving as facilitators. The training features short lectures and interactive breakout sessions aimed at equipping participants with advanced decision-making and surgical skills critical to improving care delivery. Dr. Helen Allott, a senior Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and a Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians in the UK, has played a key role in training the NPMCN examiners and residents. She highlighted the program’s powerful potential, emphasizing how the training enables participants to refine their decision-making and surgical abilities, ultimately enhancing the quality of care for mothers and newborns. Professor Emmanuel Iyidobi, Chief Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, expressed gratitude to LSTM and its partners for aligning the program with the hospital’s mission of delivering excellence in patient care, research, and training. Professor O.U.J. Umeora, Faculty of Obstetrics Gynaecology NPMCN, also encouraged participants to seize this opportunity to build a vital balance between technical expertise and sound judgment in obstetrics and gynaecology. This project is funded through the Global Health Partnerships (formerly THET), which is funded by the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) for the benefit of the UK and partner country health sectors. Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine Nigeria, DUCIT BLUE SOLUTIONS, World Health Organization Nigeria, Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Nigeria Health Watch, Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria, World Health Organization African Region, UK in Nigeria

At the heart of our mission to improve maternal and child health, the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, with its social impact partner Reckitt celebrated the launch of Project Oscar Light for Life, an initiative envisioned by Oscar Anderson MBE a young disability Activist. This transformative Neonatal Jaundice Screening, Treatment, and Kernicterus Prevention Program is set to redefine neonatal care in Nigeria. Through this initiative, over 10,000 mothers will be educated on early signs and treatment of neonatal jaundice, more than 9,000 infants will be screened for timely intervention, 300 healthcare workers will receive specialised training, and primary, secondary, and tertiary facilities will be equipped with essential tools such as phototherapy units and diagnostic devices to enhance ongoing care. Delivering the opening address, our Founder and President, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, passionately stated “Project Oscar – Light For Life is more than a program; it is a cornerstone of a global campaign to raise awareness, improve access to care, and shape international policies and guidelines. Through this Campaign, we advocate for the integration of neonatal jaundice care into global health provisions, systems and neonatal health guidelines, emphasising the importance of early and effective interventions.” In his welcome address, Mr Akbar Ali Shah, CEO of Reckitt Sub-Saharan Africa, reaffirmed Reckitt’s unwavering commitment to advancing health outcomes through impactful partnerships and innovative programs like Project Oscar. We were honoured by the presence of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Health Lagos State Prof. Akin Abayomi, Federal Minister for Health H.E. Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate CON, Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria represented by Dr Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo, CMD of LUTHOFFICIALINFO LUTH, Professor Chinyere Ezeaka, Head of Neonatology-Perinatology at University of Lagos Nigeria. Through this program, we are committed to advanced Neonatal and child health in Nigeria ensuring that every newborn, receives the lifesaving care they deserve. #ProjectOscar #NeonatalHealth #NNJ #LightforLife #Kernicterus #NeonatalJaundiceAwareness