The communication technical working group which supports access to family planning services has decried the shortage of contraceptives which it said has hindered access to improved safe and reproductive health care in Akwa Ibom State.
It noted with dismay that there was a “high level of deficit in the availability of Family Planning commodities especially injectable, implants and male condoms in Akwa Ibom State,” adding that due to the shortages, many people have yet to have access to their preferred commodities in addition to the fees charges by the health workers.
In a communique issued during the endline review meeting held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, the group said the state government has yet to provide both the commodities and the consumables in health centres across the state.
“The Akwa Ibom State Government should as a matter of urgency join other states that have demonstrated commitment to Family Planning services by paying its counterpart funds into the national family planning fund
“Beyond the provision of the commodities, the state government should prioritize the provision of consumables to Primary Healthcare facilities by releasing budgeted funds, especially overhead expenses.”
While it commended The Challenge Initiative (TCI) and Development Communication Networks (DEVCOM) for capacity building during the year and pledged sustainable coverage of FP issues, they noted that “journalists needed to undertake independent investigation and other forms of media activities and engagements including the production of audio jingles to raise awareness on Family Planning services in the state.
The communique was endorsed by Mrs Grace Usen, the chairperson of the media group and Miss Mr Ekemini Simon, the general secretary of the association.