By Grace Chigbu
Owerri, Nigeria – In a remarkable demonstration of compassion and commitment to the well-being of marginalized communities, the African Eye Foundation organized a health transformative event at the Owerri Correctional Center, focusing on the empowerment and healthcare needs of female prisoners. The event, held on , aimed to improve the overall quality of life for these women and provide them with essential support and resources.
Led by Dr Uddy Allen and her dedicated team of volunteers, the African Eye Foundation successfully orchestrated a series of initiatives that encompassed various aspects of the women’s health and welfare. With a focus on enhancing the healthcare infrastructure within the facility, the organization generously donated medical supplies to the prison’s health center. These supplies, including first aid kits, anti-malarial medication as well as analgesics were thoughtfully provided to address the prisoners’ immediate health concerns.
Recognizing the importance of women’s health, the foundation prioritized educating the prisoners on menstrual hygiene practices. In collaboration with healthcare professionals, the volunteers imparted knowledge on proper hygiene practices and distributed free sanitary pads to alleviate the challenges faced by the women during menstruation. Additionally, the foundation organized informative sessions on premenopausal syndrome, empowering the prisoners with valuable information about this transitional phase in a woman’s life.
During the event, the incarcerated women had the opportunity to share their health challenges, including conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Responding to their needs, the African Eye Foundation pledged to arrange consultations and medication for these chronic ailments. Furthermore, several prisoners expressed concerns about their vision, prompting the foundation to arrange eye examinations and provide replacements for prescription glasses. It was a testament to the organization’s dedication to addressing the holistic well-being of the incarcerated individuals.
The event also shed light on the plight of three children present in the correctional center who required immediate medical attention and proper nourishment. The African Eye Foundation committed itself to facilitate the necessary medical treatment for these children and ensured they would receive appropriate care. Moreover, the foundation recognized the urgent needs of a pregnant woman who had been admitted to the facility a week prior. Taking responsibility for her antenatal care, the organization pledged to oversee the process and ensure a safe and healthy delivery for both mother and baby.
Aware of the challenges faced by inmates who cannot afford legal representation, the African Eye Foundation expressed its commitment to provide legal assistance for those in need. Recognizing the importance of access to justice, the organization aimed to bridge the gap between the incarcerated women and legal resources, offering support to navigate the legal system effectively.
The African Eye Foundation’s generosity extended beyond healthcare, as they provided essential items for the well-being of the female prisoners. The organization donated 10 cartons of Pampers, five packs of diapers, 10 packs of wipes, and an assortment of food items to enhance the overall living conditions within the correctional center. Recognizing the nutritional needs of growing children, the foundation also donated cartons of milk and clutches on the following day, further exemplifying their dedication to improving the lives of those in the correctional center.
The event culminated with a meeting between the African Eye Foundation team and Pastor Eke Kalu, the DCC (Deputy Controller of Corrections) of the Owerri Correctional Center. Pastor Kalu graciously guided the volunteers throughout the facility, providing invaluable insights and ensuring the event’s smooth execution.
The African Eye Foundation’s event at the Owerri Correctional Center served as a beacon of hope for the female prisoners, offering them vital healthcare supplies, knowledge, and support. By addressing immediate health concerns, educating on important issues, and providing legal assistance, the organization demonstrated its unwavering commitment to empowering marginalized communities. Through their tireless efforts, the African Eye Foundation continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of the incarcerated, promoting rehabilitation and fostering a sense of dignity and well-being among those who need it most.
As the organization concludes its impactful visit to the Owerri Correctional Center, the African Eye Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to uplift communities and create positive change. Their dedication to improving the lives of the incarcerated and underserved populations serves as an inspiring example of the transformative power of compassion and empathy.
