Experts in the health sector have joined forces to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Nigeria, unveiling a Baby Shower Toolkit to achieve this goal.
The initiative, launched by the Centre for Integrated Health Programs (CIHP), targets expectant mothers through religious leaders equipped with toolkits to educate congregations.
According to Dr Bola Oyeledun, CEO of CIHP, the toolkit includes guidelines for organizing baby shower events, managing group sizes, and training health assistants.
Dr Timothy Efuntoye, US CDC Nigeria Representative, emphasized the importance of regular check-ups and knowing one’s HIV status.
Dr Hafsat Iyanda, PMTCT lead of the National AIDS and STI Control Program, highlighted the initiative’s aim to save lives by harnessing the influence of religious communities.
Senior Technical Advisor, Dr Chuckwu Onwuchekwa, explained the congregational-based approach to offering HIV testing to pregnant women and their partners.
Lagos State AIDS Control Agency CEO, Dr Folake Amimasheun, revealed the initiative’s dual benefit in preventing mother-to-child transmission and addressing gaps in pediatric ART.
Rev. Kehinde Babarinde, Lagos Coordinator of the Network of People Infected or Affected by HIV, encouraged participation, noting that expectant mothers receive a “mama pack” with essential birthing supplies.
The initiative aims to reduce HIV transmission from mother to child, emphasizing the importance of prenatal care, testing, and antiretroviral drugs. Stakeholders urge collaboration to ensure successful implementation at the grassroots level.
