Elochukwu Benjamin
Awka
The Anambra State Ministry of Health has commenced the domestication of the National Health Promotion Strategy Framework as part of efforts to strengthen disease prevention and promote healthier lifestyles across the state.
The process began with the validation of the Anambra State Health Promotion Strategic Implementation Plan during a one-day stakeholders’ workshop held on Tuesday in Awka.
The workshop, supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO), brought together government officials, development partners and other stakeholders to develop a state-specific implementation plan that reflects Anambra’s health priorities.
The initiative follows the national validation of the Health Promotion Strategy Framework in July 2026, with WHO supporting states to adapt the framework to their local health needs.
On the occasion, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, described health promotion as a vital pillar of healthcare that empowers people to make informed decisions about their wellbeing.
He said the ministry’s Health Promotion Unit plays a critical role in educating residents on healthy living, preventive healthcare and behavioural changes that reduce the burden of disease.
“Health promotion is not just about treating illness; it is about giving people the knowledge and tools to prevent disease and live healthier lives,” Obidike said.
The commissioner called for stronger collaboration among ministries, government agencies, development partners, community leaders and civil society organisations to ensure that health messages reach every segment of the population, especially underserved communities.
Also speaking, health promotion consultant, Olumide Adetioye said the strategic implementation plan would provide a coordinated framework for health promotion activities, minimise duplication of efforts and address existing communication gaps.
He noted that health promotion is a multisectoral responsibility requiring the active involvement of sectors beyond health, including education, environment, information and community development.
According to Adetioye, the strategy was informed by a communication gaps assessment and recommendations from a three-day stakeholder workshop held in August, where participants analysed the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats affecting health promotion in Anambra.
The validation exercise is expected to review the implementation matrix, resource mobilisation framework and sustainability plan before the strategic implementation plan is finalised for statewide rollout.
