This statement, authored by African Civil Society Organizations, is intended for the attention of organizers and participants of the IEA Clean Cooking in Africa Summit, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, May 14th, 2024, in Paris, France. We present this statement with a profound sense of duty and responsibility towards the future of the African continent. As we stand on the brink of transformative change, it is crucial that our voices, representing a diverse mosaic of cultures, communities, and interests, are heard.
To initiate a meaningful dialogue ahead, during and after the summit, we urge you to:
Ensure and guarantee inclusion of community and CSO voices in the global clean cooking discourse. The IEA has indicated that the Summit will bring together over 800 stakeholders from governments, private sector, development partners, international organizations, philanthropies and civil society. From the participants list published by the IEA, it is clear that there was hardly any participation of CSOs from Africa, yet the agenda of the forum was to chart a way forward on accelerating progress of clean cooking in Africa. According to the UN SDG7 Tracking report-2021, four out of ten people without access to clean cooking live in Africa and most end-users rely heavily on biomass fuels for their cooking. African CSOs work directly with communities to address the challenges they face. Civil society groups play a key role in policy development on clean cooking, creating awareness on clean cooking technologies, demystifying cultural beliefs and practices that hinder clean cooking transitions, and building trust in the uptake of new technologies and approaches. The involvement of African partners should therefore be as inclusive and transparent as possible. And it must be done in a way that promotes equality and meaningful dialogue to ensure that the genuine needs and interests of Africans are reflected in any collective outcomes.
Increase financial and technological flow for clean cooking solutions by and for Africa. There is an urgent need to provide affordable access to cleaner and modern cooking solutions swiftly. At COP28, the IEA declared that Africa needed an annual investment of USD 4 billion to achieve universal access to clean cooking on the continent by 2030. Therefore, we demand increased public and private investments in clean cooking. Additional public funds should be directed towards de-risking markets and providing subsidies to address energy poverty in Africa. These finances should also be channeled to the end users, who shoulder the burden of assessing and transitioning to cleaner and safer cooking technologies.
Acknowledge the role of clean energy in fast-tracking clean cooking progress and Africa’s energy sovereignty. Africa possesses abundant untapped clean energy resources such as wind and solar that can be harnessed to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking solutions. Several multilateral development banks and private financial institutions persist in advocating for LPG as part of the transition to clean cooking. Research has shown that while LPG initially offered short-term benefits in Africa, its long-term efficacy in rural areas has fallen short of expectations. Our position is very clear, more investments need to be directed towards solar, wind and other clean forms of energy, including decentralized renewable energy systems. Bridging the energy gap is the best approach to achieving clean cooking targets by 2030.
Acknowledge and appreciate that access to clean forms of cooking as an important part of Africa’s development, energy and manufacturing plan. Solving the cooking challenge is not a charitable endeavour by donors, but a national and continental responsibility that calls for policy prioritization in each country and collaboration across the continent.
Appreciate that addressing the cooking challenge must be driven by social and public responsibility, not markets. Public grants and concessional finance play a catalytic role in addition to and scaling up of private sector investments. Private capital can only play a role under regulated conditions.
Desist from proffering false solutions that will prolong the crisis. Carbon credits must play no role in financing clean cooking. Carbon markets are a distraction to the mission of meeting basic needs guaranteed almost everywhere on the planet.
Advance a holistic approach to clean cooking. Access and use of (clean and affordable) energy should go beyond cooking. Every African household deserves to have energy for use in farming and food storage. Every African household deserves to own a fridge as nearly everyone in the developed world does. #PowerShiftAfrica #ClimateActionNetwork
DAILOGUE ON ENERGY TRANSITION PLAN (ETP) 22ND APRIL 2024 HELD AT ALGATE HOTEL GRA, PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA.
The dialogue was moderated by Smith Nwokocha (Coordinator, Quest For Growth and Development Foundation).
In a remark, Friday Nbani of Lekeh Foundation, said the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan document was launched in 2021 at Glasgow COP26 and Nigeria endorsed the document and by 2060 Nigeria will phase out fossil fuels to Renewable Energy. The implication of the document in the Niger Delta people and how it is in line with NDC in achieving net-zero 2060. Nigeria is taking step by step to achieve or move away from dirty energy to clean energy.
Dr. Gberemene Kpae, a Lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, did a presentation on the “Overview of the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan”. He looked at the introduction, objectives of the Energy Transition plan, and how realistic the policies will be. What informed the Nigerian Government on taking such action? Every country will go back home and design how to phase out fossil fuels. Nigerian Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo oversaw the Energy Transition Plan for Nigeria, and he emphasized that, it’s the Nigerian Government’s Commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emission. The following ways according to Dr. G. Kpae are how to realize Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan: 1) ETP shall identify and support low-carbon energy works for low-income Nigerians particularly in those rural and semi-urban centres. 2) Innovation in natural gas infrastructure development. 3) Modernize Biomass Utilization. 4) Improve Energy Efficiency in Small and Medium Businesses (SMEs). 5) Harmonize Climate Change Policies. He went further to highlight some of the Challenges of Implementing the Nigerian National Energy Transition Plan, which includes (a) Financing (b) Policy and regulation (c) Human Capital (d) Public Awareness and Acceptance (e) Lack of Purchasing Power. In conclusion, he re-emphasized that, Climate Change is something we are all experiencing, it is paramount to phase out fossil fuels and the Government has been able to come out with a policy that enables this to happen, the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan.
The Facilitator, Dr Grace Alawa of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, expatiated on the “Implications of Nigeria Energy Transition Plan in the Niger Delta”. She said the ETP came out in 2022 and before it came out, we already had the NDC that addresses issues on Climate Change. This is an Academic Session, and she emphasized participants should have a copy of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). She said, the Niger Deltans are the ones on the front burner of Fossil fuel extraction and feel the impact the most. In her words, “to ensure that the energy transition plan aligns with the NDC”, each of us are stakeholder in achieving reduced emissions. She highlighted the following as the implications of ETP in the Niger Delta: (a) Our livelihood is tied to the petrol/oil in our lands, yet the common people are suffering and poor. (b) Moving to Renewable Energy sources, can the average person achieve it? Niger Delta is so blessed with natural resources. Oil has been drilled since the 50s, how many persons have benefited from it? The impact on the livelihood and jobs of the Niger Deltans is clear. What is the fate of the common persons in the Niger Delta? Potential Implications: are 1). Joblessness in the region 2) More concerns on the environment. 3) Energy Access/Affordability. 4) Community Participation/Involvement. Recommendation: Conducting Social and Thorough Impact Assessment. Also, Engage in Inclusive Community Development.
The outcome of the Interactive Session moderated by Stella Amanie of Society For Women and Youth Affairs is as follows: States should domesticate the NDCs and ETP as well. Countries like Nigeria that depends on petrol, it might be difficult for the political class to allow the actualization of the ETP. The ETP should include manpower skills and support. In recent times, there is a transition to Artificial intelligence (A.I) and the future is unpredictable, a project timeline should be brought forth. Also, Accountability of funding/funds received should be a priority. The Nigerian government can also start by ensuring that emission is reduced to at least 40%, it will be a good start. Harmonization of policies (Government Policies) is so essential around the Energy Transition plan because there are too many policies, and these policies can be put together on a single document as a pathway to achieving the ETP. Let’s Advocate that the Federal government should domesticate the ETP to States that know the roles of the Communities and every actor will key in. An important action to take, is for CSOs to possibly create an ETP Initiative or Forum, do a lot of Advocacy around the ETP Initiative and begin to engage the Government at different levels, the MDAs and Energy Sector as well. The ETP document is actualize, though the ETP is in an Exclusive List of the Federal Government and the Academics need to be engaged in this document. There is a need for Regional Conference in the Niger Delta, where we have in attendance, the organized Private Sector (because they will invest in the Energy Sector), the Academia (They will do the research) and the Civil Societies (They will enable the Advocacy part) and the Government as well, because they will enact the policies. We need to have an expanded focus. Do more stakeholder engagement, for more aggressive awareness of the Energy Transition Plan. The ETP plan should be segmented from short-term to medium-term and long-term, and this segmentation should have targets too. Government willingness in commitment to implement a deadline for Gas flaring, for instance, has been moved severally and the IOCs find it easy to default and pay for the penalties because they are not heavy. Finally, advocating for strong legislation.
The Organizing Partners are Global Initiative For Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), Vote4Climate, Lekeh Foundation, Society For Women and Youth Affairs and Quest For Growth and Development Foundation.
Egelege Orominike Community Dump-site Port Harcourt
By Smith Nwokocha
EARTH DAY CELEBRATION IN PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA.
On the 22nd of April 2024, which is globally marked as Earth Day. An African Climate Reality Leader (Smith Nwokocha with some passionate Volunteers) embarked on a community-based intervention project (Bag The Waste Campaign) which involved a Clean Up exercise, donation of Waste Management Materials like Waste Bins, Waste Bags, Shovels, Brooms, Cleaning Mobs, Wreck, wheelbarrows, and other equipment that will enable the Parks and Dump-Site Management and Users maintain a clean environment. It was possible with support from the African Climate Reality project.
Sensitizing the Managing Director of Rivers Joy Travels and Tour Ltd (Rivers Transportation Company Park).
Smith started by sensitizing the Park Management of RiversJoy Travel and Tours Ltd, Drivers, Passengers and Park Users to clean up the environment all the time and bag their waste when done cleaning. Community members present were advised to stop Indiscriminate dumping of refuse, it causes blockage of the gutters, drainage system and the entire environment which will lead to Flooding and other unhealthy diseases/sicknesses. The Managing Director (Dr. Peter B. L. Borlo, FCILT, MNIM, JP), appreciates the African Climate Reality Project for supporting such an amazing initiative, that has made their drivers today become conscious of bagging their waste and of course the park users too. They are grateful and will maintain a culture of cleanliness.
Furthermore, the African Climate Reality Leader moved to Egelege Dumpsite at Orominike Community in Port Harcourt with some volunteers, where he sensitized the Dump-site Management and joined in cleaning up the dumps site. In the process of cleaning up the dump site, he spent some hours separating plastics from other specks of dirt in line with the global theme: Plastic vs planet.
Antimicrobials have been essential in reducing the burden of infectious disease in humans, animals and plants for decades. However, their effectiveness is now in jeopardy because several antibiotic, antiviral, antiparasitic and antifungal treatments no longer work because of antimicrobial resistance or AMR.
The World Health Organization considers AMR in humans and animals to be one of the top ten threats to global health. Estimates suggest that by 2050 up to 10 million deaths could occur annually affecting economies and shifting more people into poverty. If not dealt with, AMR could also significantly affect agricultural production, again affecting economies and food security, and low-income and lower middle-income countries will bear most of the burden.
Global attention to AMR has mainly focused on human health and agriculture sectors, but there is growing evidence that the environment plays a key role in the development, transmission and spread of AMR. The environmental dimensions of AMR are complex and characterized by dynamic interactions, cyclic interrelationships, complexities,
and multiple casualties and dynamics in multi-dimensional media that impact global planetary health.
AMR can occur naturally or can be acquired. Increased use and misuse of antimicrobials and other microbial stressors, such as pollution, create favourable conditions for microorganisms to develop resistance both in humans and the environment from sources such as sewage. Bacteria in water, soil and air for example can acquire resistance following contact with resistant microorganisms.
The environmental dimensions of AMR include pollution from hospital and community wastewater, effluent from pharmaceutical production, run-off originating from plant and animal agriculture and other forms of waste and releases. These matrices
may contain not only resistant microorganisms, but also antimicrobials, various pharmaceuticals, microplastics, metals and other chemicals, which all increase the risk of AMR in the environment. Polluted waterways, particularly those that have been polluted for some time, are likely to harbour microorganisms that increase AMR development and distribution in the environment. With increasing pollution and lack of management of sources of pollution, combined with AMR in clinical and hospital settings and agriculture, risks are increasing.
The key economic-sectors contributing to the environmental dimensions of AMR can be broadly classified as: pharmaceutical and other chemical manufacturing and uses including a range of different chemicals, such as antibiotics, antivirals and fungicides as well as disinfectants; agriculture including animal production, aquaculture, food crops or those providing inputs such as feed, textiles, ornamental plants, biofuels and other agricultural commodities; healthcare delivery in hospitals, medical facilities, community healthcare facilities and in pharmacies where a broad range of chemicals and disinfectants may be used.
While the relationship between environmental pollution and AMR and the reservoir of resistance genes in the environment has been established, the significance and its contribution to AMR globally is still unclear. Even so, there is enough knowledge to implement measures to reduce the factors that influence AMR from an environmental perspective; this will also address the triple planetary crisis by addressing sources, sinks and waste.
Using the ‘One Health’ approach, which recognises that the health of people, animals, plants and the environment are closely linked and interdependent, can successfully address AMR. Some countries have already adopted this approach and have included environmental-related aspects into their National Action Plans on AMR. Agriculture, health and environmental agencies have in place many policy and regulatory frameworks and controls addressing some of the drivers and factors with an impact on environmental dimensions of AMR. Voluntary industry initiatives have established a common framework for managing discharge of antimicrobial compounds and apply it across manufacturing and supply chains among their members. International organizations and bodies are taking decisions and have initiatives such as the joint efforts of the Quadripartite Alliance (FAO, UNEP, WHO and WOAH) for strong and coordinated action.
Yet still more needs to be done.
This report calls for priority action to address key pollution sources from poor sanitation, sewage; community and municipal wastes; healthcare delivery; pharmaceutical manufacturing; intensive crop, and terrestrial and aquatic animal production sectors. There are many co-benefits of preventing and managing pollution in these sources to address biological wastes that contain resistant microorganisms that spread AMR, and chemical wastes that select for AMR. To prevent and reduce such pollutants it is crucial to:
create robust and coherent national level governance, planning, regulatory and legal frameworks, as well as establish coordination and collaboration
mechanisms
increase global efforts to improve integrated water management and promote water, sanitation and hygiene to limit the development and spread of AMR in the environment as well as to reduce infections and need for antimicrobials
increase integration of environmental considerations into National Action Plans on AMR, and AMR into environmental-related plans such as national chemical
pollution and waste management programmes, national biodiversity and
climate change planning
establish international standards for what are good microbiological indicators of AMR from environmental samples, which can be used to guide risk reduction
decisions and create effective incentives to follow such guidance
explore options to redirect investments, to establish new and innovative financial incentives and schemes, and to make the investment case to
guarantee sustainable funding, including the allocation of sufficient domestic resources for tackling AMR.
Prevention is at the core of the action and environment is a key part of the solution. Implementing comprehensive and coordinated strengthening of environmental action in the ‘One Health’ response to AMR will not only help reduce the risk and burden of AMR on societies but will also help address the triple planetary crisis.
A call to action:
Limiting the emergence and spread of resistant pathogens is critical to preserving the world’s ability to treat diseases in humans, animals and plants, reduce food safety and security risks, protect the environment and maintain progress towards the SDGs (WHO
et al. 2021). The global response to AMR rests on collaboration between sectors that have traditionally fallen within separate policy spheres.
The environment has received limited attention in tackling AMR, but evidence shows that the environment plays a key role in the development, transmission and spread of AMR. Now, while its
contribution and significance are determined, further and more coordinated action, with a focus on prevention, needs to be taken to limit the role of the environment in mediating, driving and causing AMR.
This report has shown that the environmental dimensions of AMR are multifaceted, requiring action at local, national, regional and global levels and with a broad array of stakeholders. Country implementation is particularly at the heart of a successful response to AMR, as it is in countries that the work of addressing the many challenges of AMR ultimately takes place. What is needed is a robust legal and regulatory framework that prevents the risk of AMR addressing the drivers and factors with an impact on environmental dimensions of AMR. This includes regulating the use of antimicrobials on farms, including aquaculture; limiting the discharge of effluent from pharmaceutical and other chemical industries,
and hospital waste; improving integrated water management; promoting water, sanitation and hygiene; and waste management.
While countries might have different processes for developing and managing an effective national governance mechanism for AMR, the need for a robust multisectoral coordination system has been highlighted across multiple fora as key for tackling AMR in a sustainable manner. Thus, countries need to integrate such environmental considerations into AMR National Action Plans, and AMR into
environmental-related plans such as national chemical pollution and waste management programmes, national biodiversity and climate change planning.
Another priority area for urgent action remains to ensure continued political engagement and support in countries, including national budget allocations and scaling up technical capacity across all sectors to accelerate the implementation of the NAP on AMR. Countries need to explore innovative financial incentives and schemes, and to make the investment case to guarantee sustainable funding.
Environmental monitoring and surveillance and further research prioritization are also pivotal to provide more data and evidence and better
understand the complex dynamics of AMR. This will lead to improved science-policy interfaces to ensure informed decision-making and prioritise interventions.
Therefore, strengthening national, regional and global surveillance systems through improved data management, private sector engagement,
implementation of data-driven practices and reporting is critical.
Further engagement and commitment are needed from industry actors from the three economic sectors and their value chains that are key drivers of AMR development and spread in the environment
i.e. pharmaceuticals and other chemicals, agriculture and food, and healthcare. This commitment should include further steps to ensure more transparency and corporate responsibility regarding their contribution to the risk of AMR.
Globally, there is a need to establish international standards for what are good microbiological indicators of AMR from environmental samples, which can be used to guide risk reduction decisions and create effective incentives to follow such guidance.
National and global AMR-related planning and action, and the critical role and contribution of environmental authorities, experts and practitioners need to be strengthened. Strategies and plans need to utilise the ‘One Health’ approach while addressing financial/business, climate and cultural contexts.
Regulatory, economic and in some instances cultural barriers will need to be overcome. Gender equality and rights-based approaches need to be adopted
in order to make progress towards environmental sustainability. These issues need to be addressed and given prominence in deliberations on the topic.
The Quadripartite organizations need to continue leveraging their respective organizations’ resources and strengths to jointly support countries in scaling up national responses to AMR through a ‘One Health’ approach.
Solutions exist, and many of them have been captured in this report. They range from specific management actions to promoting sustainable production and consumption. A clear vision, ambitious targets and road maps supported by political prioritization of
a ‘One Health’ response to AMR and international enabling action are needed to leverage the momentum.
Summary
The need for a robust multisectoral coordination system by all stakeholders, especially environment ministries and agencies, has been highlighted across multiple fora as key for tackling AMR in a sustainable manner.
Strengthening national actions require boosting governance, planning and regulatory frameworks, through integrating AMR in national development planning and budgeting, and into environmental- related plans and processes. Likewise, incorporating environmental considerations
into NAPs on AMR and considering a systems approach for a possible national action framework.
Priority actions required to improve reporting, surveillance and monitoring systems include developing and integrating environmental monitoring systems, strengthening systems for transparent and swift collection and reporting, monitoring and documenting releases of antimicrobials, resistant microorganisms and their genetic material to the environment, and strengthening surveillance for pandemic preparedness.
Additional research and further work are needed such as clarifying the role of the environment as affected by human activity (e.g. pollution) on the evolution of AMR, understanding the relative importance of each pollution source, developing and enforcing standards to reduce antimicrobial discharges/emissions, and identifying cost-effective technological, social, economic and behavioural interventions.
Prioritizing financing, including domestic resources, innovation and capacity development to support environmental action are crucial elements for strengthening the environmental action to tackle AMR.
Host: Dr. Dickson A.O. Akoh (National Commandant-Peace Corps of Nigeria).
Under The Distinguished Chairmanship of RT. Hon. Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo (Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Government Affairs).
Special Guest of Honour Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim (Honourable Minister, Ministry of Youth Development).
This event is the Peace Corps of Nigeria Nation-wide Retreat, held from the 4th – 5th April 2024. In Rivers State, under the Leadership of the Commandant Dr. Michael Obiora, it was such an impactful ceremony and lecture, which held at Community Secondary School, Okoro nu-odo, Rumuokoro/Rumuoagholu Town, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The Commandant, Peace Corps of Nigeria, Rivers State Command (Dr. Michael Obiora)
On the 4th of April, Dignitaries including the special guest of honour at the Rivers State Command Centre of the Nationwide Retreat was the Honorable Commissioner for Information and Communication, who was ably represented by the Director Administration of the Ministry (Dr. Sam Ugo Onyeka).
In his address to the Corps, he appreciates the Management for organizing a training retreat for it’s principal officers across the nation, as he extolled the virtues of staff training. He also admonished the officers to use this training opportunity to add positively to themselves, Rivers State and the nation at large.
On the 5th of April, Dignitaries were in attendance, which includes Peace Corps of Nigeria Commandant and Officers in Riveres State Command and Reps from Abuja Command, Amb. Smith Nwokocha of Quest For Growth and Development Foundation, Mrs. Mercy Nwokocha of Institute of Human Virology of Nigeria (IHVN) and The Manager of Chilkield Security and his team were also guests at the three days training.
The virtual lecture was live, with focus on “Strategic and Essential Service” and some Administrative Principles, which sited the practicability of Henri Fayol 14 Principles of Management; highlighting them are as follows: 1. Division of Work 2. Authority 3. Discipline 4. Unity of Command 5. Unity of Direction 6. Subordination of Individual interest to general interest 7. Remuneration 8. Centralization 9. Scalar Chain 10. Order 11. Equity 12. Stability of tenure 13. Initiative 14. Espirit de Corps. Followed by James D. Mooney’s Administrative Management, which are: 1. Coordination 2. Hierarchy 3. Functional Differentiation and Lastly, Luther Gulick and the POSDCORB Theory that involves; 1. Planning 2. Organizing 3. Staffing 4. Directing 5. Coordinating 6. Reporting 7. Budgeting.
The above led to the Essential Skills for Administrative Management such as 1. Technical skills 2. Human skills 3. Conceptual skills. The facilitator emphasized that as a Leader, you must stay in touch with the trends of time (technology) and be versatile. He went ahead to inspire the officers that, as Leaders they must have the ability to communicate and communicate effectively and possibly avoid avoidable risks. He further, mentioned the benefits of Implementing Strong Administrative Management Strategy. In conclusion, he said, a good Administrative Strategies will ensure optimal performance among team members, while lack of good communication could lead to wrong decision making. Therefore, no single strategy makes a complete strategy, except all. The lecture ended with a Q & A session.
Back to Rivers State, the Commandant appreciates all the Officers, Reps from Abuja and Guests for joining the Peace Corp of Nigeria on this Retreat and Leadership training for Principals Officer, which include Leaders holding sensitive positions in different units of the command and the training will reshape and improve operations of the Officers.
Group pictures with the Commandant, Some Principals Officers and Guests
Climate Reality Leader Smith Nwokocha championed a “Bag Your Waste Campaign” with the theme: Clean Up Africa with support from African Climate Reality Project. On the 26th of March 2024, exactly 10:00am WAT.
He sensitized the students and staff of Community Secondary School, Oroworukwo and K.C. International Academy in Port Harcourt, Nigeria on how to use this exercise of Clean Up and Bagging of Waste as a tool for Advocacy to hold relevant Authorities and Stakeholders, especially Plastic Polluters accountable for better Waste Management practices and possibly lobby for the policies to reduce the Manufacturing and sale of single-use plastic items.
Furthermore, Smith alongside the students embark on real-time sanitation exercise by cleaning up the dump site in the school premises and over 100 plastic bags were filled with plastic waste items collected during the clean up exercise.
Coke Plastic Bottles 200
Pepsi Plastic Bottles 200
La sien Water Plastic Bottles 250
CWAY Water Plastic Bottles 260
Unknown Brand Bottles 90
Papers/shattered Books 160
Cans 210
Leaves 180
Plastic Sachet 500
Plastic cups 50
Plastic straws 100
Plastic Food Wrappers 250
Sanitary pads 80
Toiletries 150
Above is the statistics of plastic and waste discovered. Afterward, students were inaugurated as Eco-Champions/Ambassadors in the school, to sustain the exercise all through the school terms/sessions. In taking action to improve waste management practices, the students will keep raising awareness and organize community/school clean up exercise regularly. Smith also, taught the students and staff how providing solutions to plastic pollution by adopting the 7R’s of Sustainability, which include: a) Reduce b) Recycle c) Reuse d) Reduce e) Rethink f) Repair and g) Rally.
The Clean Up Exercise
Climate Reality Leader Smith Nwokocha with support from African Climate Reality Project donated some useful Materials and Cleaning Tools, including Trash bags, Shovels, Reks, Handmade and Mechanized Brooms, Cleaning Mob and buckets, Large, medium and small sized Waste bin, packs of Nose masks and handgloves in numbers to the schools to maintain the culture of bagging their waste and cleaning up the environment. The Principal and Proprietress of the schools, students and staff expressed gratitude for such gesture.
In attendance, over 224 students from Community Secondary School, Oroworukwo attended the exercise, while 99 pupils attended from K.C. International Academy, all in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Grooming Pupils for Climate Action #BagYourWasteCampaign
Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP) Official Opening:
Remarks: Official opening of Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme was graced by the Honourable Commissioner of Health Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, the Executive Secretary of RIVCHPP (Dr. Vetty Agala), who was the chief host. The Executive Secretary of Rivers State Primary HealthCare Management Board, Prof. Kinikanwo Innocent Green, Permanent Secretary Rivers Ministry of Health, Directors of Rivers State Ministry of Health, Directors, and staff of Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme. Chairman of Nigerian Medical Association, Rivers State Branch (Dr. Robinson Ebbi D), National President, Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (Prof. Rosemary Ogbu). Representative of Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN), Former Permanent Secretaries present, Eze Sir Mike Elechi-President Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, and former Permanent Secretary), World Health Organization (W.H.O) Rep. Mrs. Umogbai Deborah Akintola, Institute of Virology of Nigeria (IHVN) Rep. Dr. Ogbunka, Civil Society Organization’s Reps, Lead Pastor of TREM (Rev. Obinna Nwankwo) and Gentlemen of the Press.
Dignitaries at the Event
The Executive Secretary’s (Dr. Vetty Agala) of RIVCHPP Address: She started by thanking His Excellency the Governor of Rivers State (Sir. Siminalayi Fubara, DSSRS) for implementing this programme for the State, and she further acknowledged the presence of the Distinguished Honourable Commissioner of Health (Dr. Adaeze Oreh), for pushing this programme through, it was her effort that brought this board to light. She appreciates the presence of the Permanent Secretaries, Executive Secretary Rivers State Primary Healthcare Management Board (Prof. Kinikanwo Innocent Green), the Chairman of Nigerian Medical Association, Rivers State Branch (Dr. Robinson Ebbi D), the National President, Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (Prof. Rosemary Ogbu), other Dignitaries, staff of RIVCHPP, Representative of Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN) and respected Guest.
The E.S, lauded that, this milestone marks the state joining the committee of other states with Health Insurance Programmes towards Universal Health Coverage and the priority of this board is to remove financial barrier towards Health access. The RIVCHPP was born out of the Free Medical Programmes in the 2000’s and in 2021, it became law, Rivers State Contributory Protection Programme was enacted and today it’s been approved and implemented by our dear Governor (Sir. Siminalayi Fubara DSSRS); this appointment and approval is His Excellency’s commitment to ensure that the State is among the States with the Universal Coverage of Health for the people (Rivers People), especially the vulnerable populace. Excited about the opportunity to transform lives through RIVCHPP and it will serve as a Hub for Innovation and service to saving lives. Special thanks to the Honourable Commissioner for her unflinching support and of course other MDAs, Strategic and Development partners including Agencies. Quality and Excellence is the watchword of RIVCHPP.
Dr. Vetty Agala (The Executive Secretary of RIVCHPP) during her Remarks
The Executive Secretary, of Rivers State Primary Healthcare Management Board (Prof. Kinikanwo Innocent Green); he acknowledged the presence of all Dignitaries and Guests including the Honourable Commissioner of Health and extend his Congratulation to Dr. Vetty Agala on behalf of the board, and he promised to collaborate and support the board. He further emphasized that, on the very important opening of this board, Health Insurance will improve Universal Health Coverage. He appreciates the Hon. Commissioner of Health for ensuring this happens through His Excellency. Rivers state is now counted as state with contributory protection programme. This in collaboration with Rivers State Primary Healthcare Management Board will ensure maximum health delivery.
Nigerian Medical Association Rivers State Branch, Chairman (Dr. Robinson Ebbi D); Extend his greetings to the Distinguished Guest and all Dignitaries presents. He expressed excitement that NMA-Rivers have always wanted Universal Health Coverage for all. He further extends gratitude to His Excellency the Governor of Rivers State (Sir. Siminalayi Fubara DSSRS). He stated that, Nigerian Medical Association-Rivers State Branch will give support to ensure everyone keys into this programme.
Eze Sir Mike Elechi (President, Port Harcourt Chambers of Commerce and former Permanent Secretary); He congratulates the E.S of RIVCHPP and Hon. Commissioner of Health and urges Government to include Businesspeople in this Contributory Programme and let the people feel the impact of this board.
W.H.O Acting State Coordinator (Mrs. Umogbai Deborah Akintola) : Brings greetings from W.H.O and thank everyone for showing up for this official opening. In her words, today Rivers State can boost of quality healthcare delivery. W.H.O is committed to support this board to achieve Universal Health Coverage in Rivers State.
The Rivers State Coordinator, NHIA (Mr. Chris Itodo): It is with great joy that Rivers people today will be able to access quality healthcare services. Special thanks to the Honourable Commissioner of Health. On this note, he appreciates everyone for coming.
IHVN Rep: Dr. C. Ogunka, on behalf of IHVN, it is even more exciting have the RIVCHPP in Rivers State, as this will help ameliorate the sufferings from people with health challenges like HIV/AIDs, they have glamoured for this and it will really help cover for those facing health issues like non-communicable diseases as well.
TREM: Rev. Obinna Nwankwo; Spiritual Father of the Day. He dedicated the opening to God Almighty and congratulates the State Governor, Honourable Commissioner of Health, the E.S. RIVCHPP and Rivers State for making history today. He cited a quotation in the bible 9Prov. 24:3-4) and closed by saying: “The Wisdom to build this Programme will be available to the Leadership”.
Dignitaries at the Event, including the Hon. Commissioner of Health, E.S. RPHMB, E.S. RIVCHPP, among other professionals
The Distinguished Honourable Commissioner of Health (Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh): In her remark, she acknowledged the Permanent Secretary, Rivers Ministry of Health, Executive Secretary, Primary Healthcare Management Board, Executive Secretary Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme, Nigerian Medical Association Rivers State Branch-Chairman, The President-Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, Representative of Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN), Directors of Ministry of Health, Directors of Rivers Primary Healthcare Management Board, Directors of Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme, Development Partners for Social Health, World Health Organization, Institute of Virology of Nigeria, UNICEF, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press.
The Honourable Commissioner of Health, said, it was an emotional moment for her, the first memo she got was on Rivers State Contributory Protection Programme from His Excellency. The Law was passed in 2021. For a long time, the stigma that Rivers State face, was because the state does not have Contribution Protection Programme, but today Rivers State will leverage on the mistakes of other states and protect the lives of Rivers people. One of the first of visit the Commissioner receives was from the NHIA team and that further spur her to push forward for the RIVCHPP.
The Honourable Commissioner, emphasized that, the Financial Risks Protection from statistics shows that, 90% of People pay out of pocket. RIVCHPP will save lives and serve humanity. She is assured that the Health Programme will enable Rivers People access healthcare services promptly, leaving no one behind. She launded Congratulations and cut the ribbon with humility and said “To the glory of God, we cut the ribbon under the Leadership of His Excellency-Sir Siminalayi Fubara DSSRS”. The Rivers State Contributory Protection Programme office was officially opened.
The Hon. Commissioner of Health, Rivers State (Dr. Adaeze Oreh)
Closing Remark by Mr. OkeyGodwin Amadi (Head of Admin -RIVCHPP) : Thanked the Executive Governor of Rivers State for establishing RIVCHPP, the Hon. commissioner for Health for her unflinching support,the permanent secretary Rivers State ministry of health for her motherly role and support,thanks to the ES PHCMB and thanks a million to other dignitaries in attendance and to the ES RIVCHPP and her team thank you.
RIVCHPP MOTTO:
Vision: To be the Premier State social Health Insurance Provider in Nigeria and Africa delivering Premium Financial Risk Protection to Rivers people.
Mandate: Achieving Universal Coverage by providing Financial Protection for all Rivers People, especially the vulnerable population.
#SIMCARE #SIMHEALTH
Seated from right: E.S. RPHMB, Chairman NMA Rivers State Branch, E.S. RIVCHPP and The Distinguished Hon. Commissioner of Health, Rivers State.RIVCHPP Team with the Hon. Commissioner of Health, Rivers State
Fellow Smith Nwokocha with Students of Orogbum Secondary School, Rivers State.
By Smith Nwokocha
Smith Nwokocha, a Fellow of Media EIS Fellowship, visited students of Orogbum Secondary School in Port Harcourt and sensitize them on the outbreak of Lassa Fever in Rivers State. He explained to the students what Lassa fever is? Ways of Preventing Lassa fever and they should always keep an eye on NCDC’s website (ncdc.gov.ng ), and Social Media handles on updates on the situation reports on Lassa Fever and other diseases outbreak that affect public health. Students were advised by the Fellow not to keep the information to themselves, but to also announce it to other students, their guardians, and parents, including religious leaders. He further encouraged the students to maintain a high level of hygiene, and ensure they help or support their parents/guardians/Communities in this regard.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), it opined that “Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness caused by Lassa virus, a member of the arenavirus family of viruses. Humans usually become infected with Lassa virus through exposure to food or household items contaminated with urine or faeces of infected Mastomys rats”.
Nigeria Centre For Disease and Control (NCDC) on twitter further elaborated that: Lassa Fever is as a result of viral hemorrhagic fever transmitted through contact with rats and early reporting to a health facility can save a life. Also, the Honourable Commissioner of Health Rivers State (Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh), she further simplified it, that for Lassa Fever, It is important to note that Lassa Fever is spread by direct contact with infected faeces or urine of rats, while person to person transmission occurs mainly by contact with infected urine and blood of infected individuals. The common symptoms which manifest within about six to 21 days of the incubation period include: unexplained fever, rigours, cough, muscle pain, sore throat, facial swelling, weakness, diarrhea, constipation, seizures, deafness, and unexplained bleeding. The general public are advised to enjoined to the following including Health workers staying safe:
. Promote good community hygiene and prevent rodents from entering homes. . Keep food and water covered to prevent contamination by rodents. . Store grains and other foodstuff in rodent-proof containers. . Dispose of garbage neatly and maintain clean households and environments. . Do not dry food items in open places. . Do not touch rats with bare hands. . The use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers is recommended. . Avoid direct contact with blood and body fluids while caring for sick persons. . Remember to wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
Students were encouraged to visit NCDC Twitter handle to take a survey on Lassa Fever to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices individuals on Lassa Fever, using the survey link forms.gle/NMPMvb4N9hT92c…
According to Breakthrough Action-Nigeria in a tweet post; It was emphasized that Lassa fever can be gotten from a dead rat, so publics/healthcare workers are advised to dispose of it properly. Be extremely careful not to touch it directly and use a plastic bag to pick it up and bury it somewhere that no one would dig it up.
Young Climate Activists, Leaders and Students at the rally
By Smith Nwokocha
On the 29th of February, 2024, exactly 10:00am WAT, the streets of Port Harcourt, GRA Nigeria was busy with young passionate activists and students of C.S.S. Oroworukwo and Government Comprehensive Secondary schools. With the presence of members of Civil society organization and grassroot campaigners, who joined to on a peaceful protest/rally to mark the Global Week of Action Insure Our Future, was a huge success in Nigeria, as over 60 Young Climate Activitsts, including students were part of the action as they all marched in front of AIICO insurance and AXA Insurance offices to demand for the end of Fossil Fuels projects in their Communities.
Signing in as Ambassadors to Insure Our Future Not Fossil Fuels
The young campaigners signed an Ambassadorial Seal as Ambassadors for Insure Our Future to ensure the stoppage of Fossil fuels investment and projects by Insurance Companies, with three core demands, which are:
Stop insuring Fossil Fuels projects
Respect Human Rights
Support a Just Transition.
The essence of the walk was to hold Insurance companies accountable, which was what happened during the live walk/rally/peaceful protest and because insurers are passing the cost of the Climate crisis to the communities, especially Communities affected by the impact of climate change.
Climate Reality Leader Smith Nwokocha in an interview
In a brief interview with the Project Lead of Voice of the Vulnerable and Coordinator of Quest For Growth and Development Foundation (Smith Nwokocha); express excitement that insurance companies, at least AIICO/AIG Insurance and AXA insurance felt the impact of the campaign and know that it is dangerous to keep investing in fossil fuels project as it affects the wellbeing and environment of the communities, including communities in the Niger Delta region. Young advocates and Students present shared their thoughts on why insurance companies must stop insuring fossil fuels. The rally lasted for three (3) hours.
GRA Junction, Kilimanjaro Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State on 29th February, 2024 by 10:00am WAT.
Local campaigners and community members, students, and group from Voice of the Vulnerable are protesting outside AIICO, AXA today, demanding that [AIICO, AXA Insurance take immediate action to slow the climate crisis and support the urgent transition from dangerous fossil fuels to clean energy.
This action is part of a Global Week of Action organised by the Insure Our Future network, running from 26th Feb – 3rdMarch. Grassroots groups and activists from across the world are coming together to demand action, with events taking place in Nigeria, the UK, USA, Japan, South Korea, Uganda, DRC, Switzerland, France, Peru, Colombia, Germany, and Czechia. Demands to the industry include immediately stopping insuring new fossil fuel projects, phasing out support for existing coal, oil and gas projects, respecting human rights and supporting a just transition.
2023 was the hottest year since records began, and extreme and violent weather events are increasing across every continent. Burning fossil fuels is the number one cause of the climate crisis, and fossil fuel projects – coal, gas and oil – cannot operate without insurance. This puts the insurance industry in a uniquely powerful position to have an impact on the future of our world.
We will be converging at GRA Junction by Kilimanjaro through Mummy B Road in the city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria and we are taking this action, because of the impact of Climate change in our community, we experience blacksoot, suffocating heat, floods and it goes on, our communities deserve clean environment, and we all deserve healthy planet.
Smith Nwokocha, Project Lead, Voice of The Vulnerable and Coordinator Quest For Growth and Development Foundation and I am saying: “The insurance industry is meant to protect communities but instead it is deepening the crisis we face. AIICO, AXA Insurance are guaranteeing a future with more wildfires, floods, droughts and blacksoots if it continues to insure fossil fuels. Insurers have a choice – they can stop insuring dirty, planet-wrecking oil, gas and coal. We ask them to take action now to protect our children’s future, because later is too late.”
PHwakawaka 