Bukola Afeni
A thought-provoking short film UMMI, by Shades of Us, has shed light on rural Nigeria’s staggering maternal health disparities, highlighting the urgent need for improved access to healthcare and equity.
The Founder Shades of Us and Producer UMMI, Ramatu Ada Ochekliye said the actors shared their experiences portraying characters that highlight the everyday struggles many Nigerian women face in accessing proper maternal care.
“It was an important story for me to tell because I had seen in Garkida, Adamawa state, where the access to healthcare facilities was at such a long distance. I saw the same thing replicated in Sokoto state, in Kebbi state where the primary health centres were few”, she said.
According to her, Nigeria has one of the worst maternal mortality indices in the world along with child mortality indices.
“We are not even a war-torn country. It is sad to see how many women die from giving birth, bringing life to earth, and subsequently how many children die when their mothers die.
“It is a sad thing that is the reality of many women especially women in rural centres. We believe that when women give birth in health facilities, they are more likely to survive childbirth so ensuring that we have primary health facilities close to people is the goal for Nigeria “.
The film screening was followed by engaging discussions centered around the theme of health equity, specifically focusing on how the location of healthcare facilities affects maternal outcomes in underserved areas.
The Attendees deliberated on the urgency of improving access to healthcare, particularly in rural settings, where long distances to primary health facilities continue to jeopardize the lives of expectant mothers and their newborns.
Bito Byran A Broadcaster said the movie would help tell the story of some women despite having some level of education still battling with access to healthcare.
“I think this is a brilliant initiative brought to life that speaks to some of the challenges we deal with in Nigeria.
“Watching the movie was quite emotional for me, it just made me reflect on how much many people go through such a heartbreaking experience and what be can done to draw people’s attention to the issue.” .
Rashidat Sanusi, a Programme Officer, said the movie was a reality check for her.
“It reflects our health system. It also our culture as a people in the sense that someone might be going through the same thing and you will not be aware. It is also a call to action for not just the government but for us as a people on how we can do better to help others.”
A Film Festival Director, Chris Mokunye, said at least every village in our setting should have a primary health centre so people do not have to go far seeking healthcare, especially in emergencies.
“I see this movie as a campaign and something should be done. It talks about not having healthcare facilities in communities which is supposed to be the barest minimum.
The premiere event served as a platform to amplify the importance of prioritizing maternal health and ensuring that all women, regardless of where they live, can access timely and quality healthcare.
