Over 80 Indigenes of Swali community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsà State on Monday benefitted from a medical outreach hosted by the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN).

The medical outreach tagged “Healing Hands, Caring Hearts” was carried out to celebrate the Easter season and commemorate the World Health Day by giving back to society in line with APWEN’s commitment to community development.

APWEN collaborated with the Nigerian Medical Association National committee of Gender and Sexuality (NMA), National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), and Association of Women Against Gender Based Violence (AWAGBV).

According to the organisers, the event also emphasised the message that ‘health is wealth’ and only a healthy community can get educated and thrive.

Highlights of the Outreach include

Free medical consultations conducted by volunteer doctors, body routine check-ups including blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, and vital signs by nurses and midwives.

Also, free essential medications were dispensed by licensed pharmacists and Health education sessions on disease prevention and healthy living by the nurses.

Gender-Based Violence awareness talks facilitated by AWAGBV and career talks on the importance of STEM education for girls and sensitization on the objectives of APWEN.

Representative of NMA, Dr. Divine Ebidimie stated “As doctors, we believe healthcare should reach everyone. Partnering with APWEN BAYELSA gave us the platform to serve this community directly, and the turnout shows how much this was needed.”

The chairman and representative of NANNM, Bayelsa State, Mrs Sonia Mbeleokpo added: “Nurses and midwives are always at the frontline of community health. We are proud to stand with APWEN and Do Foundation to promote preventive care and health awareness in Swali Market.”

The President of AWAGBV, Barr. Dise Ogbise Goddy-Harry, also told the beneficiaries that “Ending Gender-Based Violence starts with awareness at the grassroots. We commend APWEN Bayelsa for creating space for this conversation alongside healthcare delivery.”

“When communities are safe and healthy, women and girls can pursue education and careers without fear.”

Speaking with newsmen after the event, the Chairman of APWEN Bayelsa, Engr. Amalate Ann-Jonathan Obuebite Ph.D FNSE, expressed profound gratitude to all partners and volunteers. “This outreach reflects what partnership and purpose can achieve. To NMA, NANNM, and AWAGBV, thank you for your selfless service and massive turnout.

“To all APWEN Bayelsa members, your dedication continues to inspire generations. To the Swali Community, thank you for trusting us with your health. Indeed, APWEN Bayelsa Medical Outreach Season 1 has set a strong foundation for more impact-driven programs.” She said.

According to her, APWEN Bayelsa reaffirms its commitment to promoting health, education, and the advancement of women and girls in engineering and STEM.

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