Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, June 7-9, 2024 – The Kaduna State Bureau of Statistics (KDBS) and the Natview Foundation for Technology Innovation (NFTI), with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, successfully hosted a three-day health sector retreat aimed at strengthening the use and uptake of health operational data for policy perspectives. The retreat took place at the scenic Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The retreat, held from June 7th to 9th, brought together senior managers, policymakers, and key partners in the Kaduna State Health Sector. The primary emphasis was on improving the use of operational and population-based data to track progress and achieve sustainable health outcomes in Kaduna State. The theme for this year’s retreat was “Strengthening the Use and Uptake of Health Operational Data for Policy Perspectives.”

Notable attendees included Hon. Mukhtar Ahmed, Commissioner of the Kaduna State Planning and Budget Commission, and Hajiya Umma K. Ahmed, Commissioner for the Kaduna State Ministry of Health. Their presence underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making in shaping health policies and strategies.

Key Highlights of the Retreat:

  1. Insightful Discussions and Workshops: Over the course of three days, participants engaged in in-depth discussions and workshops. These sessions were designed to explore data needs, address performance management perspectives, and develop actionable strategies for improving health outcomes.
  2. Strategic Boarding Sessions: The boarding sessions were a pivotal part of the retreat, focusing on mapping data platforms to health outcomes, addressing data visibility challenges, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Topics covered included Human Resources for Health, Service Readiness, Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, and Health Care Financing.
  3. Team Bonding Activities: To foster unity and teamwork, participants participated in various team bonding activities to strengthen relationships and encourage open communication among team members.
  4. Action Plan Development: The final day was dedicated to strategy and action planning. Senior managers, policymakers, and partners collaborated to finalize implementation strategies, ensuring that data investments lead to tangible improvements in health outcomes.

The retreat was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication and contributions of all participants. Special appreciation goes to the Kaduna State Government, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and our invaluable partners, including BMGF, LAFIYA, CHAI, UNICEF, and Solina Group.

As the retreat concluded, participants left with renewed energy and a clear roadmap for leveraging data to enhance health policies and outcomes in Kaduna State. The commitment to using data for decision-making promises a brighter and healthier future for the state.

For more updates and to follow the progress of these initiatives, stay tuned to our social media channels and official communications.