By Adedapo Adesanya
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has pledged its unwavering support following the devastating severe flash flooding that displaced thousands of people and caused significant damage across several communities in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The floods in Borno come when the state is already grappling with a complex humanitarian crisis caused by years of conflict and displacement.
The promise came during the visit of WHO Country Representative, Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo, to the Governor of the state, Mr Babagana Umara Zulum, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Garbai Elkenemi, the Government officials at the Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation & Resettlement, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and the Internal Persons Displaced Camps (IDPs).
He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Borno in addressing the health challenges from the recent floods.
Accompanied by the Borno State Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Mr Baba Mallam Gana, the WR assessed the situation in flood-displaced communities, including the Bakasi and Yerwa internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, where many have sought refuge.
Dr Mulombo expressed his deep concern over the impact of the disaster on the lives of the people, particularly the most vulnerable populations, including women, children, and older adults.
He assured the people of Borno State that WHO would continue to provide essential technical and operational support to mitigate the health impact of the floods.
The flood was a result of a dam (Alu dam) which broke its banks, displacing over 1 million people and heightened health risks, including cholera and other waterborne diseases, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in the state.
Also affected by the flood is the WHO National Polio Laboratory situated at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).
“On behalf of WHO, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the people of Borno State affected by this devastating flood. WHO stands with you during this challenging time, and we remain committed to ensuring that essential health services reach those in need, especially those displaced by this crisis.
“The sudden flood has displaced people from their homes. We are shocked by what happened. We are here to determine the needs and support the state and federal government in addressing sudden challenges. Climate change is real,” Dr Mulombo stated.
Dr Mulombo reiterated WHO’s dedication to working with the government of Borno State and other partners to prioritise the health and well-being of the affected populations.,” he noted.
In collaboration with the Borno State Ministry of Health, the WHO team and partners have been actively involved in responding to the health challenges the flooding poses.
WHO, in a statement, said it has provided Borno with the support of four mobile clinics deployed in IDP Camps and minimal stocks of essential medicines and medical supplies, including Interagency Emergency Health Kits (IEHKs), basic and for malaria.
Additionally, WHO has provided support in the IDP camps to enhance the state’s capacity to rapidly detect and respond to disease outbreaks.