Report by: Adeshina J Mathew, SMI Abuja Coordinator

History was made on 31^st day of January,2011 as it witnessed the gathering of great and positive minded individuals, who sought to come together to achieve a common goal..

The event which was the formal launch of Sweet Mother International (SMI) Abuja, was held at the Unity Square located in the heart of the federal Capital territory ,Abuja, Nigeria.

The event was hosted in collaboration with Build a Better Nigeria Volunteers (BBNV) and tagged: "Abuja 2011 Peace Declaration and Campaign Against Pregnancy Related Deaths".


Litany of dignitaries who graced the formal launch of the SMI Abuja Chapter include: a representative of the federal radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), members of the catholic youth organization of Nigeria, workers, students, and among other well meaning Nigerians.

Undoubtedly the event marked a turning point for participants especially the youth who are driven by passion to volunteer there time, resources to carve a nitch for themselves at contributing their quota towards the development of society and country.

 

Addressing the participants the Convener/Coordinator of the Sweet Mother International Abuja Chapter, Mr John Adeshina welcomed the volunteers, stressing that “ As we unite in our voices and Actions to this campaign we have become One people, One world, United In progress.

 

The coordinator further enjoined the participants to stand up and say never again should our Mother, Sisters, Aunities and women in general  die from avoidable pregnancy related deaths in Africa.

 

 The coordinator Mr. John further stressed some of the findings of the World health organization (WHO) that “Africa is the only continent where there has been no improvement in maternal Health and also emphasized the fact that the average maternal mortality ration has increased from 870/100,000 live birth in 1990 to 1000/100,000 in 2001; and that Africa account for about 50% of the estimated 600,000 Deaths.

 

Going by the mind blowing statistics and the frighten  number of mortality rate arising from the pregnancy related death, the coordinator charged and challenged the volunteers, Government at levels, Communities, Organizations to jointly say “Enough is Enough” to the avoidable deaths of women from pregnancy complications in Africa.”

 

The highlight of the epoch making events which is the first of its kind in Abuja (FCT) witnessed interactive session on the goals of the organization, and a Campaign around the major spots in the city, as more people lend their support for the programme.

To volunteer, support or to seek information email johnybiz07@yahoo.co.uk or call 07067155491 Adeshina J Mathew, SMI Abuja Coordinator