Access Bank Deepens Commitment to End Obstetric Fistula
Lagos, Nigeria
– Access Bank PLC, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has reiterated its unwavering commitment to combat obstetric fistula through its partnership with EngenderHealth, an international non-profit organization dedicated to improving sexual and reproductive health.
Understanding Obstetric Fistula
Obstetric fistula is a devastating condition that affects women who experience prolonged and obstructed labor. It results in a hole between the vagina and the bladder or rectum, causing chronic incontinence and social stigmatization. Globally, an estimated 2 million women live with this debilitating condition, with most cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria.
Access Bank’s Partnership with EngenderHealth
In 2019, Access Bank forged a strategic alliance with EngenderHealth to launch the “Fistula Project,” an ambitious initiative aimed at eliminating obstetric fistula in Nigeria. The project focuses on: *
Prevention:
Raising awareness about the risks of fistula and promoting prenatal care and skilled birth attendance. *
Treatment:
Providing free surgical repair for women with fistula through dedicated fistula centers. *
Rehabilitation:
Offering comprehensive post-operative care, including psychological counseling and economic empowerment programs.
Progress and Impact
Since its inception, the Fistula Project has made significant strides: * Over 1,000 fistula repair surgeries have been successfully performed. * More than 100,000 women have been reached through awareness campaigns. * A network of community-based organizations has been established to provide ongoing support to affected women.
Deepening Commitment
Building on the success of the initial partnership, Access Bank has recently announced a further commitment to the Fistula Project with an additional investment of N500 million (approximately $1.3 million). This funding will enable the expansion of services, including: * Establishment of additional fistula repair centers in underserved areas. * Training of more healthcare providers in fistula treatment. * Strengthening of community-based rehabilitation programs.
Executive Comments
“At Access Bank, we believe that every woman deserves access to quality healthcare,” said Herbert Wigwe, Group Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank. “Our partnership with EngenderHealth is a testament to our commitment to empowering women and eliminating the scourge of obstetric fistula.” “We are grateful for the unwavering support of Access Bank,” said Amy Tsui, President and CEO of EngenderHealth. “Their continued investment will allow us to reach even more women and create a brighter future for them and their families.”
Conclusion
Access Bank’s deepened commitment to ending obstetric fistula is a beacon of hope for the countless women who suffer from this condition. Through its partnership with EngenderHealth, the bank is playing a pivotal role in creating a world where every woman has the opportunity to enjoy a healthy and dignified life.
Access Bank Deepens Commitment to End Obstetric Fistula
Access Bank Plc, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating obstetric fistula, a severe and debilitating condition, from the country. During a recent visit to the Mercy Ships Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia, Herbert Wigwe, Access Bank Group Managing Director and CEO, witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of fistula repair surgeries on the lives of women and girls. Obstetric fistula is a preventable injury that occurs during childbirth, resulting in persistent leakage of urine and/or feces. It affects approximately 2 million women and girls globally, disproportionately in low-income and marginalized communities. Access Bank has partnered with Mercy Ships, an international non-profit organization providing free surgeries to those suffering from obstetric fistula and other neglected diseases. Through this partnership, the bank has supported fistula surgeries in various African countries. “Access Bank is deeply committed to our mission of empowering individuals and communities,” Wigwe said. “We believe that every woman has the right to a healthy and dignified life, free from the debilitating effects of obstetric fistula.” The bank is working to raise awareness of the condition, remove the stigma surrounding it, and advocate for increased access to quality fistula care. Through its corporate social responsibility initiatives, Access Bank supports programs focused on fistula prevention, education, and rehabilitation. “By collaborating with Mercy Ships and other like-minded organizations, we can make a tangible difference in the fight against obstetric fistula,” Wigwe added. “We are determined to continue our efforts until this condition becomes a thing of the past.” Access Bank’s renewed commitment to ending obstetric fistula reinforces its dedication to improving the lives of women and girls and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.