NFTI recently participated in the Kaduna State Contributory Health Management Authority (KADCHMA) Stakeholders Symposium, themed “Innovative Health Financing: Paving the Path for Universal Health Coverage.” Attendees at the event held at Hotel Seventeen included prominent figures and organizations working to improve healthcare access and equity.
Representing NFTI at the symposium was Hajia Aisha Sani, the Head of Digital Development, who joined other influential attendees, including the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Her Excellency Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe; Alh. Abubakar Mayere (Secretary to the State Government); the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Haj. Umma K. Ahmed; and the Director General of KADCHMA, Mallam Abubakar Hassan. The gathering also included representatives from various MDAs, NGOs, and other critical stakeholders.
In her keynote address, the Deputy Governor highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring healthcare access for all citizens, irrespective of their status. She stated, “We are resolute in building accessible healthcare systems. Healthcare is pivotal to our progress, and we are committed to meaningful dialogue that sustains and advances our healthcare systems.”
A major feature of the symposium was the presentation of the 2024 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) report by Prof. M.S. Ibrahim, a renowned public health and community medicine expert. Drawing insights from the 2023-2024 NDHS (National Demographic and Health Survey) report, Prof. Ibrahim emphasized the need for innovative financing strategies, mobilization of philanthropists, and the expansion of health coverage to include vulnerable populations. He described healthcare as a fundamental human right and added, “Kaduna State holds immense potential, and government leadership remains a critical catalyst for progress.”
The symposium also included goodwill messages from key stakeholders and a series of engaging panel discussions. Panels explored critical themes, such as innovative health financing and health equity, focusing on increasing enrollment among informal sector workers and vulnerable groups. Stakeholders from organizations like KADBUSA, NHIA, and SPHCB, contributed insights on optimizing healthcare resources, addressing gaps in financing, and enhancing equitable access to healthcare services.
Discussions highlighted the need for efficient use of resources, ensuring equitable distribution of essential drugs, and implementing strategies to bridge the gaps in healthcare financing. Stakeholders also explored how innovative approaches could pave the way for universal health coverage in Kaduna State.
This year, Natview collaborated with KADCHMA on several impactful projects, further solidifying its commitment to healthcare transformation in Kaduna State. One of the key initiatives was the establishment of KADCHMA’s first toll-free call center, a game-changing development designed to improve communication and service delivery under the Health Insurance Scheme, making healthcare more accessible and equitable for all.
Written By: Simnom Emmanuel
