Date: 22nd June 2024
Venue: Ofuobi Africa Centre, Enugu
A significant gathering took place on June 22, 2024, in the heart of Enugu at the Ofuobi Africa Centre. The Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP) organized a workshop aimed at addressing a pressing issue: improving rural Catholic health delivery. The workshop drew a diverse array of participants, each sharing a common goal—to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare in the rural areas of Enugu.
The day began with an atmosphere of anticipation and purpose. As attendees filled the venue Dr. Mrs. Ebele Odinachi lightened the atmosphere with songs then followed by an opening prayer led by Sr. Afomachukwu, there was a palpable sense of urgency and hope. Very Rev. Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, the Director of CIDJAP, set the tone with his opening remarks. His words resonated deeply, emphasizing the critical need to address the healthcare disparities that plague rural communities. He spoke of the moral imperative to serve the underserved and the vital role that Catholic health institutions play in this mission.
Following Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike's speech, Mr. Chris Amalu, a senior hospital workshop consultant, took the stage. He highlighted and reviewed Catholic health policy on safe motherhood and hospital ethics. Prof. Paschal Okolie also delivered a powerful lecture on character, accountability, and integrity in the context of hospital ethics, doctor, patient, and staff relationships, and financial and stakeholder management.
The workshop's agenda was thoughtfully designed to foster both discussion and action, as the morning progressed, participants had a break out session into smaller groups for focused discussions. These breakout sessions provided a platform for brainstorming and solution-oriented dialogue. Each group was tasked with addressing specific challenges, such as maternal and child health/disease prevention.
In the afternoon, the workshop shifted to reactions to some of the issues raised. A panel discussion featuring experts from various fields led by Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike delved into the critical challenges faced by rural Catholic health institutions. Dr. Cleopatra, a seasoned gynaecologist and Dr. Stella, an optometrist consultant, used their experience to address key issues raised. One of the most valuable aspects of the workshop was the opportunity for networking and collaboration. These interactions laid the groundwork for future collaborations, more workshop fostering a sense of solidarity and shared purpose among the participants.
As the day drew to a close, there was a sense of accomplishment and renewed commitment. The workshop had not only identified the challenges but had also chart a path forward. The collective wisdom and dedication of the participants resulted in a set of actionable recommendations. These included advocating for increased funding to improve healthcare infrastructure, ensuring more equitable distribution of medical supplies, implementing regular training programs for healthcare providers
Reflecting on the day's events, it was clear that the CIDJAP workshop had achieved its objectives. It had brought together a community of passionate individuals and organizations, all united by a common goal. The discussions, training sessions, and networking opportunities had equipped participants with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to make a tangible difference in rural healthcare delivery.
The commitment to improving rural Catholic health delivery in Enugu was not just a mandate; it was a shared vision. As the participants left the Ofuobi Africa Centre, there was a renewed sense of hope and determination. The workshop had ignited a spark—a spark that would drive ongoing efforts to ensure that quality healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of geographic location. CIDJAP's mission to serve the underserved had been reinvigorated, setting the stage for continued progress and impactful change in the healthcare landscape of rural Enugu.
