SMI Activities in Kano State
Report by
Medinat Lawal-Sani
Acting Coordinator
Introduction:
Background: Following an invitation from the World Youth Empowerment Association Inc. (WYEA) for a 'Save African Women from Pregnancy Related Deaths' event, interest in SMI's activities was sparked, leading to Medinat Lawal-Sani's appointment as the Acting Coordinator for Kano State.
Challenge: The cultural and religious peculiarities of Kano State present unique challenges in implementing SMI programs.
Support of Traditional Leaders:
Engagement with Local Leaders: Efforts were made to gain the support of traditional leaders, such as the ward head of Dukawuya/FCE and the Hakimi of Gwale, for SMI programs.
Appointment of Patrons: Both leaders were appointed as patrons of SMI-SAVE, indicating their support for the initiative.
Collaboration with PPMCH:
Partnership for Maternal and Child Health: The Acting Coordinator joined a group of NGOs and individuals (PPMCH) working to improve maternal health in Kano State. A collaboration was established to enhance SMI's efforts in the region.
Contributions to African Amazons Magazine:
Highlighting Local Achievements: Efforts were made to feature local professionals like Dr. Binta Tijjani Jibril and Dr. Hadiza Shehu Galadanchi for their contributions to reducing maternal mortality in the magazine.
Inaugural Meeting of Kano State SMI Volunteers:
First Volunteers Meeting: Held on March 20th, 2011, at the Federal College of Education, Kano. The meeting focused on introducing SMI, discussing objectives and guidelines, and planning for future rallies and programs.
Attendance: Eleven volunteers, including the ward head of Dukawuya/FCE.
Meeting Minutes:
Agenda Items: Included an opening prayer, introduction to SMI, discussion of guidelines and objectives, rally planning, and way forward.
Volunteer Engagement: Emphasis on the need for young people to contribute their energy and time to SMI's aims and objectives.
Full Minutes: Available for download in the attached document.
Birthing Kits Distribution:
Visual Evidence: Pictures of birthing kits distributed in Kano are available for viewing. Click here to see pictures of birthing kits.
Conclusion:
The SMI program in Kano State, under the leadership of Acting Coordinator Medinat Lawal-Sani, is making significant strides in promoting maternal health and building partnerships for a stronger impact.
Attachments:
Full Minutes of the First Volunteers Meeting
Pictures of Birthing Kits