By Muhd D Haidar
As part of efforts towards combating acute child malnutrition in Katsina State, the state government, in partnership with UNICEF, has successfully procured Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) for over 8,000 children in dire situation.
In a statement signed and made available to Hotpen by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, said the 7,000 cartons of life-saving RUTF, valued at N400 million, was jointly procured by the Katsina State Government and UNICEF through the Child Nutrition Match Fund.
UNICEF Country Representative, Ms
Cristian Munduate handed over the items to the state government at the state’s Ministry of Agriculture Warehouse on Wednesday.
Acknowledging the high rate of child malnutrition in Katsina State at the ceremony, the State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to addressing the issue. He expressed his deep gratitude for UNICEF’s invaluable support and partnership.
In her address, UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, pinpointed the crucial role of RUTF in saving the lives of children suffering from severe malnutrition. She emphasised that the timely provision of these nutritional supplements is crucial for their recovery and development.
Earlier, the State’s Commissioner of Health, Alhaji Musa Adamu Funtua, assured the public of the government’s continued collaboration with development partners and donor agencies to ensure that more children receive the necessary nutritional support.
The Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency,, Dr Shamsudeen Yahaya praised Governor Radda for his leadership in transforming the health sector.
He attributed the positive changes to the increased employment of medical personnel and the sponsorship of indigenous students to pursue medical studies abroad, among other initiatives numerous to mention.
Munduate was accompanied to Katsina State for the handover by two prominent UNICEF Campaign Champions: the renowned Kannywood/Nollywood actor Ali Nuhu and the talented actress Rahama Sadau. Also, in her entourage were other key UNICEF officials.
