By Ovat Abeng
As part of activities to mark this year 2024 Rotary Family Health Days in Nigeria, the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs in Awka Axis under Anambra Zone of Rotary International District 9142, has offered free medical services to residents of the metropoli.
The exercise took place at Umuogbunu village town hall Awka on Saturday.
Speaking to Journalists on behalf of the Irresistible Rotary Presidents shortly after the exercise, the President, Rotary Club of Awka Central, Rotarian Agubata Ekene, said the outreach was organised by Rotary International District 9124 but in collaboration with clubs in Anambra Zone where 3 sites; Nnewi, Onitsha and Awka are currently executing same exercise.
That seven Rotary and Rotaract Clubs within the Awka axis, comprising; Rotary Club of Awka Central, Rotary Club of Awka Urban, Rotary Club of Awka GRA, Rotary Club of Igbariam Gateway, Rotary Club of Amawbia Sport Club, the Rotary Club of Awka Metropoli and also Rotaract E- club of East Land.
Ekene said that the outreach was in response to one area of focuses of Rotary International, which focused on providing high-quality health care to vulnerable people in the society, particularly, women and children.
He also added that the clubs decided to provide the medical intervention to the less- privileged and vulnerable groups that could not afford regular healthcare checks.
According to the President, the essence of the programme is to expand access to quality care so that mothers, children and the old can have the same opportunities for healthy future.
Also, the Rotary club provides education, immunizations, birth kits, and mobile health clinics for the needing.
He noted that the free outreach is currently ongoing across the three Senatorial Districts of the State.
Also speaking, Assistant Governor Rotary International District 9142 *Rtn Engr Obiudu Chid M. Phf* who is also the Anchor of this year’s program for Awka Axis appreciates the good work of Rotary and the District 9142 Governor Rtn Prof A.U Nonyelu who he represents, for his passion in Service to humanity and appointment to serve with him in this Rotary year. He said that this is one of the Rotary Area of Focus and this outreach is the fulfillment, as it concerns (HEALTH) malaria, eye test, HIV test, Hypertension, Diabetes, Deworming of children, Breast cancer, Dental care, Prostate cancer, Vitamin A administration, Hepatitis B and C as well as distribution of sanitary pads for girls and Insecticide treated mosquito nets to the beneficiaries.
“We decided to come here because this is an indigent community and what Rotary preaches is to go to indigent communities to bridge the gap.
He added that the items received by the beneficiaries were mosquito nets and free drugs.
He also noted that no fewer than 600 Awka residents are expected to benefit from the Rotary gesture.
