The Bashir Foundation for Fistula and Women’s Health (BFFWH) has announced a collaborative initiative with the Fistula Foundation to provide critical medical interventions for women living with obstetric fistula across Nigeria.
Director of Media and Technology, for the Foundation, Ibukun Ogundare, in a statement on Friday said the partnership aims to transform the lives of 140 women through free fistula repair surgeries and comprehensive care on a first come first serve basis.
Obstetric fistula, a childbirth injury caused by prolonged, obstructed labour, often leads to social isolation and emotional trauma for affected women.
BFFWH’s comprehensive approach includes surgical repairs, rehabilitation programs, community mobilization and awareness campaigns, training healthcare workers, and broader women’s health programs.
Ogundare added the project, scheduled to run from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, targets 140 fistula repair surgeries through routine care and dedicated surgical camps in Kaduna, Abuja, and Zamfara.
According to him, the partners have identified Gwarinpa General Hospital in Abuja, Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital in Kaduna, and Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) Center in Gusau, Zamfara, as the strategic locations for these surgeries.
The statement read in part: “As a non-profit organization, BFFWH is dedicated to improving reproductive health and well-being for women, with a primary focus on treating, preventing, and rehabilitating obstetric fistula patients.
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“Since its inception, BFFWH has provided hundreds of women with free fistula surgeries and empowerment programs to rebuild their lives.
“Through partnerships with government agencies, international donors, and community stakeholders, BFFWH remains committed to promoting maternal health and eliminating fistula in Nigeria. This collaboration with the Fistula Foundation will enable BFFWH to expand its reach and impact.
“Beyond surgery, the project will provide post-surgery support, including psychological counselling and skills training, to help patients reintegrate into society. BFFWH aims to transform lives and foster economic independence among fistula survivors.
“We believe eliminating fistula requires collective action and invites government agencies, healthcare providers, and community leaders to join hands in ensuring no woman is left behind”.