By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

The Society for Family Health (SFH) has commenced sensitization of communities in Kwara state towards promoting family planning (FP) and reducing maternal mortality through the Delivering Innovation in Self-Care (DISC) 2.0 project.
The campaign aims to foster grassroots awareness and drive behaviour change across communities in Kwara State.

SFH’s State Program Officer, Mrs. Bukola Oguike who reffirmed the commitment of SFH agenda during a sensitization visit to Afon, Asa LGA, highlighted family planning’s vital role in protecting maternal and child health as SFH prepares to expand campaigns across Kwara’s 16 LGAs

According to Oguike,“Family planning empowers families and saves lives. Through DISC 2.0 project, we will support households in Kwara to access reliable information and self-care solutions.

“Door-to-door campaigns will bring family planning education and services closer to communities, addressing misconceptions and promoting informed choices.”

SFH’s Oguike also appealed to community leaders to leverage their influence to foster acceptance of family planning.

“Traditional and religious leaders play a vital role in shaping opinions. Their endorsement of family planning can transform perceptions and encourage more people to embrace its benefits,” she said.

As the campaign intensifies, SFH also called on the public to actively participate by spreading advocacy and supporting their neighbours in accessing FP services.

“This is a collective effort. Together, we can build healthier, stronger communities where every woman has the chance to thrive,” Oguike stressed.
For his part, the state Health Promotion Officer, Jibril Abdulkareem, commended the initiative as timely intervention to address maternal mortality and promote healthier families.

“Family planning is essential in reducing the risks of unplanned pregnancies, which often result in complications during childbirth.

“This project provides an opportunity for communities to learn and adopt practices that protect mothers and children,” Abdulkareem said.

Community members in their reactions expressed support for the campaign, emphasizing its relevance to improving health and economic outcomes. Local resident and women’s leader.

A resident of the community,Alhaja Shakirat Yusuf, called on traditional rulers and community leaders to actively champion FP awareness.

“When women are educated about family planning, they can make better decisions for their health and the well-being of their families. We need everyone to join hands in spreading this message,” she stated.

The DISC 2.0 project emphasizes self-care to enhance access to family planning, empower women, and reduce maternal mortality by addressing stigma, myths, and access barriers.