Governor Dikko Radda inaugurated an ultra-modern pharma-grade warehouse on Wednesday to improve the accessibility of essential medicines and vaccines in Katsina.

Inaugurating the facility in Katsina, Mr Radda announced his administration’s commitment to strengthening the health sector and ensuring access to quality healthcare services.

The governor, however, lauded the collaborative efforts of UNICEF, the Global Fund and the federal government in making the project a reality.

“This pharma-grade warehouse is a testament to our dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure in Katsina state. It will not only ensure the efficient storage of medical supplies but also guarantee timely distribution to healthcare facilities across the state,” Mr Radda said.

The UNICEF chief of the Kano Field Office, Rahama Mohammed-Farah, described the facility’s establishment as a significant milestone in strengthening the state’s healthcare services.

Mr Mohammed-Farah said UNICEF was committed to supporting the Katsina state government in strengthening its health system.

“Our collaborative efforts aim to improve access to quality healthcare services for children, women, and families across the state,” he said.

Mr Mohammed-Farah said UNICEF, in collaboration with Global Fund and the federal government, upgraded 22 medical warehouses across 21 states to an ultra-modern pharma-grade standard with the Traceability Initiative for Device Procurement.

“This state-of-the-art facility will provide a secure, climate-controlled environment for the storage and distribution of essential medicines and vaccines.

“This will help ensure timely and equitable access to life-saving commodities, reducing stockouts and improving health outcomes for children and families across Katsina state,” he said.

The warehouse, he said, would also enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the health supply chain, thereby enabling the state government to better plan, manage, and distribute essential medicines and vaccines.

(NAN)