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#ForeverKings – On Tuesday 11th of June, I was delighted to be flanked by Dr Saraki II and Dr Saraki III, respectively my dear husband HE Abubakar Bukola Saraki MBBS CON and my darling daughter Dr Teniola Saraki MBBS, and to be accompanied by a Former Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly, Right Honorable Razak Atunwa, and highly renowned Global Health Leader and Innovator, Bhavin Vaid, as I was honoured with the prestigious King’s Changemaker Award as part of the 2024 King’s College London Distinguished Alumni Awards.

I am humbled to receive the King’s Changemaker Award, as this recognition highlights the power of using knowledge with purpose and celebrates my efforts in global development, particularly in maternal, newborn, and child health through the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, while also acknowledging my work in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and championing health equity through active global and national policy and advocacy.

Reflecting on my educational journey at King’s College London, attaining an LLM in International Economic Law, I truly appreciate the profound impact of my time at the institution on my career trajectory, as my experience at #KCL instilled in me a sense of responsibility to use my education to make a meaningful impact on society with an international perspective. King’s mission to drive positive and sustainable change in society, through its commitment to empowering interdisciplinary thinking, has been a guiding force.

At the distinguished award ceremony which took place at The Great Hall, King’s Building, Strand Campus, hosted by King’s Vice-Chancellor & President, Professor Shitij Kapur with Former Award Winner David Stanley BEM (Music Mmus), 2001 acting as compere for the evening, I congratulated all the distinguished awardees, including Dr Victoria ‘Vickki’ Harmer, alongside whom I serve on the Global Breast Cancer Care Council.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to King’s College London for the honour bestowed upon me, thank you, King’s College London, for this incredible distinction. Let us continue to harness the power of education and use our wisdom for the greater good!

The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) is proud to announce its membership in the Global Climate and Health Alliance (GCHA), a global coalition of organisations dedicated to safeguarding public health from the impacts of climate change. By joining forces with GCHA, WBFA reinforces its commitment to advancing climate action and promoting health equity across Africa and beyond. This strategic collaboration underscores WBFA’s steadfast commitment to advancing resilience and planning, understanding the inextricable link between climate change and public health.

Climate change is intensifying the spread of vector-borne diseases and posing risks of malnutrition, waterborne illnesses, and heat stress, contributing to an estimated additional 250,000 deaths annually by 2030-2050, globally. Nigeria and Africa face significant challenges at the intersection of climate change and health, with projections indicating faster temperature rises than the global average and increased vulnerability to extreme weather events. Nigeria is already experiencing the exacerbation of existing health issues, particularly among vulnerable populations such as mothers, children, and adolescents. Yet, Africa accounts for only 3.9% of the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide – the smallest share among all world’s regions.

Her Excellency, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, Founder and President of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, expressed her delight about the membership, stating, “As we witness the increasing urgency of addressing climate change and its profound impact on public health, the Wellbeing Foundation Africa is honoured to join forces with the Global Climate and Health Alliance. Through this partnership and network, we are poised to amplify our efforts in advocating for policies and programming which prioritise the health and wellbeing of communities most affected by climate-related challenges. Together, we will strive towards building a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.”

Dr. Francis Ogbise, Director of Programmes, Impact & Sustainability at The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing complex global issues with an impact-centric approach. He stated, “Joining the Global Climate and Health Alliance aligns perfectly with WBFA’s mission to drive sustainable development and improve health outcomes. By leveraging our collective expertise and networks, we can advocate for evidence-based policies, implement innovative grassroots programmatic solutions, and empower communities to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on public health. Our membership underscores our commitment to fostering synergistic approaches towards achieving positive impact at scale and setting benchmarks for transformative change.”

Adanna Maduka, Director of Policy, Partnerships & Grants at The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, emphasised the transformative potential of the Alliance, highlighting WBFA’s strategic advocacy with WASH For Wellbeing, as exemplified in the WBFA Dettol Nigeria Hygiene Quest programme and its efforts in developing the facilitation initiative designed to accelerate progress toward water access and security for all people in developing countries with Accelerate Water, formerly Global Water 2020, remarking, “At WBFA, we recognise the critical intersection between climate change and public health. Our membership in the Global Climate and Health Alliance presents an exciting opportunity to catalyse meaningful change by influencing policy decisions, mobilizing resources, and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration. Together, we will work tirelessly to address the root causes of health disparities exacerbated by climate change and advocate for equitable, sustainable solutions that leave no one behind. Our targets include expanding our partnership network, advancing policy initiatives, and scaling up innovative programmes to achieve measurable impact in climate resilience and public health outcomes.”

In alignment with its commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 6, Good Health and Wellbeing, and Clean Water and Sanitation, the Wellbeing Foundation Africa Dettol Nigeria Hygiene Quest programme has integrated climate education into its curriculum, which reaches children in schools, mothers in health facilities and families in communities across Nigeria. Alongside this, the WBFA Adolescent Skills and Drills, Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programme, also pioneers a comprehensive approach to hygiene education which encompasses climate awareness and resilience-building strategies. By incorporating climate education into the PSHE and WASH curricula, our climate and health programming aims to equip individuals, particularly youth and mothers, with the knowledge and skills to address the interconnected challenges of climate change and public health. These initiatives highlight a commitment to empowering communities with the tools and resources necessary to thrive in a changing climate while promoting sustainable behaviours for the betterment of present and future generations.

Kehinde Akinsola, Programmes Lead for Kwara State at The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, spoke on the organisation’s dedication to integrating climate education into its programmatic coverage, particularly recognising its impact on the health of pregnant women and lactating mothers. Akinsola emphasised the importance of building the capacity of frontline health workers as educators to transform outcomes for schools, healthcare facilities and individuals in vulnerable communities, such as those in Kwara State, with the knowledge and skills to navigate the challenges posed by climate change and its direct implications on maternal and child health. Through frontline programming and homegrown initiatives, WBFA is committed to raising awareness about climate issues and implementing sustainable solutions that foster resilience and empower communities. Akinsola stated, “Climate education is not just a component of our work; it is a cornerstone of our commitment to building a healthier, more sustainable future for all.”

The Global Climate and Health Alliance welcomed WBFA as a member, acknowledging the foundation’s longstanding commitment to advancing health equity and sustainable development in Africa. Together, WBFA and GCHA will collaborate on initiatives aimed at strengthening climate resilience, promoting climate-smart policies, and empowering communities to build a healthier, more sustainable future.

As the world faces increasingly complex challenges, partnerships like this are essential for driving positive change and ensuring the health and wellbeing of present and future generations.

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About the Global Climate and Health Alliance:
The Global Climate and Health Alliance (GCHA), established in Durban in 2011, is dedicated to combating climate change and safeguarding public health. Comprising health and development organizations worldwide, the Alliance shares a vision of an equitable, sustainable future where the health impacts of climate change are minimized, and its co-benefits are maximised. The Alliance was launched following the inaugural Climate and Health Summit, which took place in 2011 during the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Alliance members collaborate to integrate health considerations into global, regional, and local climate policies, with a focus on reducing health inequalities through both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Additionally, the Alliance encourages the health sector to take a leading role in climate action and raises awareness of the health risks associated with climate change. Through leadership, advocacy, policy, research, and engagement efforts, the Alliance strives to drive meaningful change and ensure a healthier, more resilient future for all.

About the Wellbeing Foundation Africa Climate and Health Strategy:
The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) is at the forefront of pioneering frontline programming to address the intricate nexus between climate change and public health. With a steadfast commitment to promoting health equity and environmental sustainability, WBFA has developed a robust Climate and Health Policy & Strategy. This strategy encompasses dedicated programming initiated by WBFA since 2018, including the Adolescent Skills and Drills, Public Health and Hygiene Education (PSHE) Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programme, a comprehensive approach to hygiene education which highlights climate awareness and resilience-building strategies, and interventions aimed at fostering better health outcomes in communities across Nigeria WBFA’s active participation in global and international climate forums, including the Conference of the Parties (COPs) since 2021, underscores its commitment to advocating for climate-sensitive policies and fostering global cooperation to mitigate the impacts of climate change on public health. Moreover, WBFA’s alignment with initiatives such as the Sustainable Markets Initiative’s Terra Carta Seal, on which Her Excellency Toyin Saraki served as a distinguished panellist on the 2023 Terra Carta Seal Award Expert Review, demonstrates dedication to promoting sustainable practices and advancing environmental stewardship.

For Global media inquiries, please contact: Zelia Bukhari, Global Health Advocacy and Policy Manager at Her Excellency Toyin Saraki’s Global Office and Philanthropy – zelia.bukhari@wbfafrica.org.

March 14, 2024 – New York City: The Wellbeing Foundation Africa proudly announces that its Founder & President, Her Excellency Toyin Saraki, has joined the esteemed AstraZeneca Global Breast Cancer Care Council. H.E. Mrs. Saraki’s appointment signifies a significant step towards advancing global efforts to combat breast cancer and improve healthcare outcomes for women in Nigeria and worldwide.

The AstraZeneca Global Breast Cancer Care Council, a group of advisory experts across clinical research, advocacy and policy, aim to establish a comprehensive global policy and programmatic framework which fosters the best standards of care for breast cancer patients. H.E. Mrs. Saraki’s expertise and dedication to women’s health, particularly in Africa, will play a pivotal role in shaping strategies to achieve the ultimate ambition of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, in alignment with the World Health Organization’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative, to reduce global breast cancer mortality by 2.5% and prevent 2.5 million deaths by 2040, through addressing critical issues such as early detection, access to quality and complete treatment, and patient support services.

Breast cancer remains a pressing issue in Nigeria and globally, with millions of lives affected each year. According to the WHO, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women of child-bearing age and the leading cancer for women in Nigeria, with one of the highest prevalences and lowest rates of survival globally. Recognising these challenges, the council will focus on key areas including increasing survival rates, reducing chances of recurrence, and enhancing the quality of life for breast cancer survivors, while advocating for comprehensive clinical practice, patient-centred advocacy, policy and national guidelines.

Her Excellency Toyin Saraki expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with AstraZeneca and fellow council members, stating, “I am deeply honoured to join the AstraZeneca Global Breast Cancer Care Council and play a pivotal role in advancing breast cancer care not only in Nigeria and across Africa but importantly, and ambitiously, on a global scale. My commitment lies in bridging the existing inequities in breast cancer outcomes through systematic improvements in access to resource-appropriate and quality services. This includes prioritising health promotion and early detection strategies, ensuring timely diagnosis, and advocating for comprehensive breast cancer management protocols. Together, we will work tirelessly to make tangible progress in the fight against breast cancer and improve the lives of countless individuals and families affected by this disease.”

H.E. Mrs. Toyin Saraki’s appointment underscores her unwavering commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and championing women’s rights globally. As a renowned advocate for maternal and child health, she brings a wealth of experience in healthcare policy, advocacy development and grassroots community engagement to the council. Her leadership will undoubtedly drive impactful initiatives that resonate with diverse communities across the globe.

The Wellbeing Foundation Africa extends its congratulations to Her Excellency Toyin Saraki on this prestigious appointment and looks forward to the transformative impact of her leadership within the AstraZeneca Global Breast Cancer Care Council.

For Global media inquiries, please contact: Zelia Bukhari, Global Health Advocacy and Policy Manager at Her Excellency Toyin Saraki’s Global Office and Philanthropy – zelia.bukhari@wbfafrica.org.

I am delighted to announce our new The Wellbeing Foundation Africa programme in partnership with the esteemed Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine to advance the EmONC Competency-Based Curriculum for Resident Doctors in OBGYN at the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria.

This collaboration is aimed at enhancing the availability of quality advanced Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care services in both national and sub-national hospitals. By equipping the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria with the capacity to deliver advanced EmONC competency-based training, we’re making significant strides in fortifying Nigeria’s healthcare workforce.

Under the Global Health Workforce Programme Grant, funded by the UK Department of Health and Social Care and managed by the Tropical Health and Education Trust – THET, this initiative underscores WBFA’s dedication and efforts in building resilient health systems post-pandemic and advancing Universal Health Coverage goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3.

This programme will leverage expertise from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (Nigeria Liaison Group) and experienced master trainers in advanced EmONC from LSTM. Implemented on the frontlines by The Wellbeing Foundation Africa in collaboration with LSTM – Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, this transformative partnership will make significant strides in improving maternal and newborn healthcare outcomes across Nigeria, through engaging stakeholders in postgraduate medical education, establishing advanced EmONC Centers of Excellence in Abuja and Lagos, and ensuring sustainable operations for postgraduate OBGYN revision courses.

In the past ten years THET has reached over 100,000 health workers across 31 countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia in partnership with over 130 UK institutions, and as Founder of THET, Professor Sir Eldryd Parry, once said, if there’s mutual trust and a willingness on both sides to learn from each other, a readiness to adapt and a readiness to try new things then good work will happen. The Wellbeing Foundation Africa is pleased to uphold this commitment across Nigeria, fostering trust with a commitment to both teaching and learning.

In strengthening the capacity of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, this project is funded through the Global Health Workforce Programme, which is funded by the UK department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) for the benefit of the UK and partner country health sectors.

The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) and GE HealthCare have taken a significant step towards improving maternal and fetal outcomes in Nigeria by signing a Strategic Cooperation Agreement (SCA) to equip midwives and nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively use ultrasound machines.
This initiative aims to empower healthcare providers with the tools to deliver better care to expectant mothers and their unborn babies. As part of this collaboration, GE HealthCare has donated eight Vscan ultrasound devices. These compact, portable devices are well-suited for use in resource-limited settings, where accessing traditional ultrasound machines may be challenging.

The agreement was ceremonially signed by Her Excellency Mrs Toyin Ojora Saraki, Founder & President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, and Mr Eyong Ebai of GE HealthCare at The Sofitel Hotel on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

In addition to the donation, WBFA and GE HealthCare are conducting comprehensive training for nurses and midwives which will impact over 96,000 mothers this year alone. These training programs in the states of Lagos, Abuja, and Kwara, include theoretical and practical sessions. Participants will receive hands-on training on the use of the Vscan device, covering basic principles of ultrasound technology, image acquisition, interpretation, reporting, and even basic obstetric ultrasound scans.
According to the World Health Organization, the Maternal Mortality Rate in Nigeria in 2017, was estimated at 917 per 100 000 live births; it increased by nearly 14% in 2020 to reach 1047 deaths2 with evidence suggesting that the increase in rates is due to three common signs of delay: in making the decision to seek maternal healthcare, in locating and arriving at a medical facility, and in receiving skilled pregnancy care when a woman gets to the health facility.

Her Excellency Mrs Toyin Ojora Saraki, Founder & President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa said “This collaboration between WBFA and GE HealthCare is a significant milestone in our mission to promote the wellbeing of expectant mothers across Nigeria. With the power of ultrasound technology, we can now detect warning signs early, ensuring the health and safety of both mothers and babies. By providing Vscan devices, delivering comprehensive training, and raising awareness within communities, WBFA and GE HealthCare is working towards healthier pregnancies, safer deliveries, and brighter futures for mothers and babies across Nigeria.”

Mr. Ebai from GE HealthCare said “We are proud to support the Wellbeing Foundation Africa in their mission to improve maternal and fetal outcomes in Nigeria. This will enable critical healthcare services in remote areas; GE HealthCare’s involvement supports our strategy in Africa to providing healthcare professionals with the latest technology, we are equipping them with the means to detect potential complications early, ultimately saving lives.”

Read the Maternal Mortality Regional Factsheet.

 

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New York, United States – The year 2023, midpoint of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, marks a critical turning point in the global conversation around adolescent wellbeing and maternal healthcare. The Wellbeing Foundation Africa was proud to join the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) meeting this September, bringing together influential global players to address the pressing needs of adolescents and to shine a light on a critical, often-overlooked phase of maternal health: the fourth trimester.

More than ten global organisations, including the Wellbeing Foundation Africa in partnership with Reckitt joined forces with Fondation Botnar to commit to action aimed at tackling the challenges faced by the world’s 1.8 billion adolescents, including water, sanitation and hygiene, focused on our programming, Dettol Nigeria Hygiene Quest. 

Alongside this, at CGI, I was honoured to contribute to ‘The Fourth Trimester: How to Provide Postpartum Support  and Reduce Post-Birth Mortality’, addressing the critical issue that demands our immediate attention: the fourth trimester, that often-overlooked period from birth to 12 weeks. This is a time when the delicate dance of mother-baby bonding unfolds, and mothers embark on the journey of physical recovery from childbirth. 

This phase represents a time of profound vulnerability for mothers as they navigate physical and emotional changes, including sleep deprivation, hormonal fluctuations, and the responsibility of nurturing a newborn. Unfortunately, inadequate support during the fourth trimester can lead to long-term health issues, including postpartum depression, anxiety, and increased risk of chronic illnesses.

Nigeria, like the United States, faces similar challenges in maternal healthcare. Maternal mortality rates remain a pressing concern, particularly for black, asian and minority ethnic rural and underserved communities in the USA. In this pivotal moment in history, it is imperative that we recognize the urgency of these matters and take global action to ensure that mothers and babies not only survive but thrive during the critical phases of healthcare. 

As we unite in our efforts to protect the wellbeing of mothers, their newborns and adolescents worldwide, let us forge a path toward a brighter, healthier future.

 

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