The USAID-funded Integrated Child Health and Social Services Award (ICHSSA-4) project has empowered over 2,099 persons through its cash transfer, health insurance schemes, and start-up kits intervention project in Kebbi.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the intervention was in collaboration with the Kebbi Government, Kebbi Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KECHEMA), and Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
Launching the project in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday, Dr. Joseph Inyang, Chief of Party of the USAID-funded ICHSSA-4 project, said the project was aimed at supporting orphans, vulnerable children, and their households in the state.
”The interventions include health insurance; payment of over N6 million in health insurance premiums for 1,308 beneficiaries.
”Others are cash transfers, which include instant cash transfers of N20,000 each to 556 beneficiaries to alleviate financial burden, and start-up kit distribution, covering the provision of vocational skills training and start-up kits to 235 program participants.
”The ICHSSA-4 project, a five-year initiative (2019-2024), is implemented by Pro-Health International and Prime and Catholic Relief Services as a technical partner.
”The project also aims to mitigate the impact of HIV and other causes of vulnerability in Kebbi and five other states like Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Zamfara,” he said.
The interventions, Inyang said, were designed to improve the quality of life for children and families in Kebbi by empowering them and their households through sustainable economic growth and comprehensive and integrated service delivery.
While reaffirming the project’s commitment, the chief of party said, “Our commitment to partnering with state governments and local stakeholders remains unwavering.
”Together, we are focused on delivering high-quality, holistic services to the most vulnerable population.
”By strengthening these collaborations, we aim to empower every child with the opportunity to thrive and ensure they stay healthy, continue their education, and grow up in safe, stable environments that foster their full potential.”
Inyang further emphasised that the comprehensive initiative was crucial for enhancing the well-being of children and families in the state.
”By providing a safety net and promoting economic stability, it paves the way for long-term financial independence and resilience among vulnerable households,” the chief said.
Also speaking, the wife of Kebbi Governor, Hajiya Nafisa Idris, said that the lives of the beneficiaries would be transformed positively.
The governor’s wife, represented by the wife of Deputy Governor, Hajiya Maryam Abubakar-Tafida, said that the occasion marked a significant stride towards fostering positive change and empowerment within the communities.
”As wife of the Governor, my dedication has always been directed towards the health care services and welfare of our people, particularly the vulnerable and underserved.
”The ICHSSA-4 project perfectly aligns with this commitment, and it is indeed a privilege to partake in an event that signifies a transformative leap towards building a more resilient and empowered community,” she said.
She said that the intervention was a journey of hope, empowerment, and community development that went beyond the mere distribution of financial assistance and start-up kits.
”This support is a testament to your belief in your potential, resilience, and ability to shape a brighter future.
”Today’s event signifies not only financial assistance but also the unlocking of doors to opportunities, nurturing talents, and fostering sustainable growth,” she noted.
The governor’s wife appreciated the USAID, Pro-Health International (PHI), and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) of the ICHSSA-4 project, other USAID implementing partners, and everyone involved in bringing the event to fruition.
A cross-section of the beneficiaries who spoke at the event thanked the wife of the governor, the Kebbi government, and the NGO, as well as other partners, for the gesture.
They assured that they would make use of the opportunity offered to improve their livelihood. (NAN)
