From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
More than 12,300 vulnerable patients in Katsina State have benefited from free hernia and hydrocele surgeries sponsored by the Mangal Foundation, a non-governmental organization committed to improving healthcare access for the less privileged.
Malam Hussaini Kabir, a member of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, confirmed this on Thursday in Katsina during the launch of the second-quarter phase of the ongoing surgical intervention.
Kabir explained that the foundation, established in 2013 and funded by philanthropist Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, has consistently carried out free surgeries and medical treatments every quarter.
According to him, between 500 and 600 vulnerable patients suffering from hernia and hydrocele are treated free of charge each quarter under the programme.
“This initiative does not only assist residents of Katsina town but also reaches people in rural communities across the state and even in neighbouring areas,” Kabir said.
“Our goal is to reduce the financial burden of healthcare for vulnerable individuals who struggle to meet basic needs.”
He called on other organizations and philanthropists to support similar health interventions to complement the government’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing the healthcare needs of underserved populations.
Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the intervention, saying they had lived with the painful conditions for years but lacked the financial means to afford the surgeries.
They appealed to the government, private organizations, and wealthy individuals to emulate the Mangal Foundation’s gesture and expand support for critical healthcare services.
In addition to the surgical interventions, the foundation also provides free eye treatment and surgeries for vulnerable patients across the state.
