The Anambra government began recruiting community-based health workers on Tuesday to strengthen grassroots healthcare delivery across the state.

The exercise, held in Awka, was organised by the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency.

It was held in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency.

Speaking with journalists, Chisom Uchem, executive secretary of ASPHCDA, stated that the initiative would enhance access to affordable healthcare, particularly in rural communities.

Ms Uchem said, “This is part of government efforts to boost primary healthcare by recruiting and deploying qualified personnel directly to the communities.”

She explained that the measure would bridge the gap between residents and health facilities, ensuring that essential services reach grassroots populations.

Ms Uchem urged successful applicants to discharge their duties with compassion and integrity, stressing that negligence could result in loss of life. She also warned that anyone caught using forged certificates during the recruitment process would face legal consequences.

Obiagelu Uchebo, permanent secretary at the health ministry, said the workers would care for the sick and guide residents to health centres, and support expectant mothers for safe deliveries.

Ms Uchebo noted that the recruitment was designed to reduce maternal deaths, stillbirths, and other preventable fatalities.

“At least 10 community-based health workers will be deployed to each ward across the state to address the shortage of staff in primary healthcare centres,” she added.

(NAN)