From Muawiya Bala Idris, Katsina
Katsina State Government has spend about N1.7 billion on the renovation of stabilization centres and the establishment of new Outpatient Therapeutic Programme (OTP) centres to tackle malnutrition in the state.
The chairperson of the State Nutrition Committee, Rukayya Hamza Umar, disclosed this to newsmen.
She said it was the first time such an amount had been spent by the government to address the problem of malnutrition in the state.
According to her, part of the funds was used to provide Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), as well as food for caregivers.
Rukayya stated that the renovated stabilization centres are located in Funtua, Kafur, Kankara, Dutsinma, Kurfi, Danmusa, Batsari, Musawa, and Malumfashi, while new centres were opened in Baure and Daura Local Government Areas.
She added that all the centres have been equipped with the necessary health facilities.
The chairperson further revealed that 60 new Outpatient Therapeutic Programme (OTP) centres were established across 12 local government areas that previously had no access to such services.
With the addition of the new centres, the state now has about 265 OTP centres.
She said 600 community volunteers have been trained to identify malnourished children early, while more than 300 health workers have been equipped to support the services.
Rukayya also announced that, henceforth, treatment and the provision of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) will be free for both malnourished children and their caregivers.
While commending the government for its financial and moral support in tackling malnutrition, she expressed concern over the diversion of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food meant for malnourished children by some parents and hospital staff.
She, however, appreciated the establishment of a mobile court by the government to deal with those involved in diverting the food.
She also called on the public to assist the government in identifying and reporting offenders.
Rukayya further urged husbands to always provide adequate food and necessary support for their nursing wives and children after delivery.