Activity Report: ASKME Project’s Radio Activity for Maternal Health Education, March 22, 2022
Introduction
The ASKME Project, in collaboration with the Eliezah Foundation, Lifetech Africa, and the Advanced Institute of Industrial Technology, has been actively working to improve maternal health in Eastern Uganda. One of the significant activities conducted to educate young women and girls about maternal health was a radio talk show aired on Basoga Baino FM on March 22, 2022. This report summarizes the key points and impact of this initiative.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the radio activity were:
- To raise awareness about maternal health and safe childbirth practices.
- To provide critical information and resources to pregnant women, especially teenagers.
- To promote the services offered by the ASKME Project and its partners.
Event Details
- Date: March 22, 2022
- Radio Station: Basoga Baino FM
- Participants: Representatives from the ASKME Project, Eliezah Foundation, and Lifetech Africa.
- Audience: Young women, teenage girls, and the general public in Eastern Uganda.
Content Covered
The radio talk show covered several important topics related to maternal health:
- Introduction to the ASKME Project: An overview of the project’s mission, vision, and the support it provides to pregnant women.
- Importance of Prenatal Care: Emphasizing the need for regular check-ups, proper nutrition, and the dangers of home deliveries.
- Safe Childbirth Practices: Information on the importance of skilled birth attendants and the risks associated with traditional birth attendants.
- Resources and Support: Details about the services available at efiug hubs, including natal kits, referrals, and emergency shelter for pregnant women.
- Encouragement to Seek Help: Encouraging young mothers to visit the efiug hubs for support and not to hesitate in seeking medical help.
Distribution of Educational Materials
- Booklets: 109 booklets containing basic pregnancy information were printed and distributed during the radio show. These booklets were also made available at the regional coordination office in Jinja.
- Referrals: Following the radio show, 146 referrals were made to appropriate healthcare facilities for women seeking further assistance.
Impact and Feedback
The response to the radio activity was overwhelmingly positive:
- Increased Awareness: There was a noticeable increase in the number of women visiting the efiug hubs for information and support.
- High Demand for Resources: All distributed booklets were quickly collected, indicating a high demand for educational materials.
- Community Engagement: The talk show facilitated greater community engagement and encouraged open discussions about maternal health.
Challenges and Recommendations
Despite the success of the radio activity, several challenges were noted:
- Resource Constraints: The high demand for educational materials and services highlighted the need for more resources and funding.
- Follow-up Support: Continuous follow-up support is necessary to ensure the information provided leads to positive health outcomes.
Conclusion
The ASKME Project’s radio activity on maternal health education successfully reached a wide audience and provided crucial information to young women and girls in Eastern Uganda. However, to sustain and expand these efforts, additional support and resources are needed. The project remains committed to improving maternal health and seeks continued collaboration with partners and donors to achieve its goals.
