Hussaini Ibrahim Kafi
Residents of Garko, the headquarters of Garko Local Government Area of Kano state, have expressed deep concern over the acute shortage of health workers at the town’s Primary Health Centre (PHC). The facility, which serves over 4,000 patients, currently has no doctors or nurses staff.
Findings by Africa Health Report Correspondent and confirmed by a vocal advocacy group, Kano Leads, revealed the alarming situation at the PHC during on-site visit to the town with, according 2006 census, has 162, 500 populations.
Malam Abubakar Sadiq Umar, the Secretary of Kano Leads, highlighted the absence of health personnel and commended the Garko Orphans Foundation for providing free health services to the community.
A cross-section of residents interviewed by our correspondent expressed their predicament and frustrations, hardships caused by the lack of health workers at the PHC.
A woman, identified as Maryam, expressed her reliance on the Garko Orphans Foundation for essential medical services, including tests and medication.
She said: “We’ve all relied on this foundation that has been providing free health services in this town. They have been giving us medications and tests for a long time, all at no cost. It’s a huge help for us.
“She urged the Kano State Government to intervene and provide adequate healthcare personnel to the PHC.”
Another resident, a mother of seven, who sought anonymity echoed the sentiments of many, emphasizing the critical role of the PHC in their community and appealing to the state government for urgent action.
“For almost five to six years, we have all come to depend on this foundation that provides free health services. My children and I have relied on it for years. It has been a lifesaver for our family and for vulnerable in this town.”
Our correspondent learnt that, the Garko Orphans Foundation has stepped in to fill the void, providing free medical services to over 2,000 patients.
Baffa Nasiru, a caretaker at the PHC, highlighted the foundation’s efforts in providing essential care to orphans and vulnerable individuals.
He also acknowledged the support of various institutions and philanthropists in providing beds, drugs, and other necessary supplies.
Both the residents and the foundation’s representatives urged the Kano State Government to address the pressing issue of healthcare worker shortage at the Garko PHC.
The community’s well-being depends on having access to adequate and timely medical services.
