The Executive Director of Rite Place Health Initiative, Pharm. Chukwumezie Okechukwu Okolo, has raised the alarm that the spate of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are intimately linked to water, with many being waterborne, water-related, or water-associated.
Pharm Okolo who noted this in a press briefing on Friday in Abuja, to highlight the alarming state of water quality in Nigeria, and also it upcoming 2024 International Water conference tagged, “Beyond Access, Quality Matters,” added that NTDs starkly illustrate the neglect of certain segments of our population, particularly the impoverished and illnesses.
He expressed concerns on the potability of water in Nigeria, including bottled and sachet water.
He explained that the water we drink in Nigeria is a risky proposition and the access to water is merely the first step; ensuring its quality is equally which is crucial to prevent waterborne diseases.
On the upcoming conference, Okolo explained that conference is aimed at mobilizing stakeholders to tackle the issue of water quality in Africa.
He said Rite Place Health Initiative is a non-profit organization (NGO) which is proactively addressing the critical public health concerns.
He said they firmly believe that access to clean water is a fundamental human entitlement and ensuring that all Africans have access to potable water is their moral imperative as anything less is unacceptable.
He further said the conference seeks to achieve several objectives, including the inauguration of volunteers, the launch of a quarterly magazine, and the solicitation of partnerships to support the provision of clean quality water to primary healthcare centers.
“We will intensify our efforts to collect datas that will reveal the true extent of water-related mortalities and morbidities.
“Additionally, Rite Place Health Initiative is committed to collaborating with local and International partners to address the root causes of waterborne diseases.
“We recognize that this is a shared responsibility, and we must work together to ensure that all Nigerians have access to clean, quality water.
“Prioritizing water quality is essential to safeguard public health and ensure a brighter future for generations to come,” he said.
