The Export-Import Bank of China (China EXIM) and UNICEF have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support vulnerable children in Nigeria.
This partnership will enhance healthcare, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in up to 450 Nigerian communities, a crucial step in safeguarding children’s health.
According to a joint statement issued by the organisations on Monday, the partnership will help reduce waterborne diseases and improve essential services for children in Nigeria. Adding that the collaboration will extend to 12 healthcare facilities, 21 schools, and 17 markets across Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.
The program addresses a critical need in Nigeria, where inadequate access to WASH services contributes to over 70,000 child deaths annually from waterborne diseases such as diarrhoea. Only about 10% of Nigeria’s 110 million children have access to basic WASH services, according to UNICEF.
“We appreciate UNICEF’s commitment to children, and this program marks the beginning of a new era in our cooperation,” said Yang Dongning, Vice President of China EXIM.
In addition to improving sanitation and healthcare, the partnership aims to ensure equitable access to climate-resilient water and sanitation facilities. It will also focus on maternal and newborn care, immunisation services, and community engagement.
UNICEF Nigeria’s Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, emphasised, “This program will help fulfill the rights of thousands of children, ensuring a healthier future.”
