September 17, 2024:
The USAID-funded Integrated Child Health and Social Services Award (ICHSSA-4) project, in collaboration with the Kebbi State Government, Kebbi State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, and the Kebbi state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has launched a comprehensive intervention aimed at supporting Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) and their households in Kebbi State.
The intervention includes:
• Health Insurance: Payment of over 6 million Naira in health insurance premiums for 1,308 beneficiaries.
• Cash Transfers: Instant cash transfers of 20,000 Naira each to 556 beneficiaries to
alleviate financial burdens.
• Start-up Kits Distribution: Provision of vocational skills training and start-up kits to
235 program participants.
The ICHSSA-4 project, a five-year initiative (2019-2024), is implemented by Pro-Health International as the Prime and Catholic Relief Services as a technical partner.
The project aims to mitigate the impact of HIV and other causes of vulnerability in Kebbi State and five other states, including Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
These interventions are designed to improve the quality of life for children and families in Kebbi State by empowering them and their households through sustainable economic growth and comprehensive and integrated service delivery.
Dr. Joseph Inyang, Chief of Party of the USAID-funded ICHSSA-4 project, reaffirmed the project’s commitment, stating, “Our commitment to partnering with state governments and local stakeholders remains unwavering. Together, we are focused on delivering high-quality, holistic services to the most vulnerable populations. By strengthening these collaborations, we aim to empower every child with the opportunity to thrive—ensuring they stay healthy,
continue their education, and grow up in safe, stable environments that foster their full potential.”
He further emphasized, “This comprehensive initiative, which combines health insurance, cash transfers, and vocational empowerment, is crucial for enhancing the well-being of children and families in Kebbi State. By providing a safety net and promoting economic stability, it paves the way for long-term financial independence and resilience among vulnerable households”
The official launch event featured keynote addresses, testimonials from vocational training graduates, and the distribution of health insurance cards and start-up kits to beneficiaries.
Distinguished attendees included Her Excellency, the First Lady of Kebbi State, represented by the Wife of the Deputy Governor; the Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, represented by the Permanent Secretary; the Commissioner of Health,
also represented by the Permanent Secretary; the Program Manager of Kebbi State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SACA); the Director of Budget and Economic Planning; Permanent Secretaries and Directors from various ministries; Civil Society Organizations of the ICHSSA 4 project; USAID implementing partners in the state; and other esteemed guests who
participated in the launch.