In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, six organizations came together on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, for a special outreach programme at Betterlife Market, Makoko community. The event, themed “Empowering Women, Empowering Health,” was organized by Maria Foundation for Women Development in collaboration with Hope Builders for Physically Challenged Foundation, Lupus Remedies Foundation, Africare Peace Initiative, Grassroot People and Gender Development Centre, and Stop Female Genital Mutilation.
The programme created a platform to celebrate women, promote health awareness, and encourage women at the grassroots to take better care of themselves and their families.
The opening remarks highlighted the importance of women as the backbone of every family and a powerful force in society. Participants were encouraged to embrace the spirit of the theme, “give to gain,” by staying engaged and open to the health and empowerment messages shared during the event.
Health education sessions formed the heart of the outreach. A talk on reproductive health reminded pregnant women of the importance of antenatal care, proper nutrition, hydration, and routine medication. Another session focused on blood pressure and diabetes, describing them as silent killers and stressing the need for regular exercise, healthy eating, and routine blood pressure checks.
The event also featured a talk on hygiene, which emphasized handwashing, clean water, environmental cleanliness, and proper toilet use as essential ways to prevent infections and maintain good health.
A further session on lupus awareness helped participants understand its symptoms, risks, and management, while also pointing out the need for early diagnosis and support.
Beyond health, the programme encouraged women empowerment and skill development. Women were reminded of their strength, capacity to work, and importance of becoming self-reliant. They were also urged to teach young girls the value of learning skills that can open doors to a better future.
The outreach ended with health checks, refreshments, group photographs, and moments of joy shared among participants and organizers.
