Borno State Workshop Addresses Climate Change and Health Impacts

The Borno State government organized a sensitization workshop to enhance understanding among health and environmental stakeholders of the health effects of climate change, especially in light of recent flooding in Maiduguri. The workshop emphasized the need for awareness, training, and community engagement to address these health impacts effectively.

The Borno State Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Ministry for Environment and the UK FCCD Lafita Program, has successfully conducted a one-day sensitization workshop focused on the intricate relationship between climate change and public health. This initiative brought together key stakeholders, including health professionals, environmental experts, and community members, to enhance their understanding of the health ramifications associated with climate change. The workshop was prompted by the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri, which highlighted the urgent need for awareness regarding the health impacts of climate change. Dr. Langana Bukar, the Director General of the LAFIYA Project, noted the significance of this workshop, emphasizing that many individuals remain uninformed about how climate change adversely affects both the environment and human health. Dr. Bukar stated, “This workshop is timely and apt because of the recent flood disaster that ravaged the state which was also as a result of climate change and the health challenges that may follow.” Ambassador Usman Aliyu, Director General of the Borno State Green Wall Agency, pointed out the crucial components of the environment—physical, biological, and socioeconomic. He cautioned against the detrimental effects of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can lead to soil degradation, groundwater pollution, and a range of health issues. He warned, “The use of chemical fertilizer and pesticide also have a long run effect on soil fertility, contamination of groundwater and destruction of soil structure which brings disease such as cancer, gastro disease, among others.” The workshop underlined the necessity for public awareness campaigns, professional training, and effective strategies to mitigate the health effects of climate change. Workshop participants were encouraged to share their newfound knowledge with their communities, aiming to foster a culture of awareness and proactive measures against climate-related health risks. In light of the recent flood disasters, this initiative is vital in promoting a healthier and more sustainable environment.

The Borno State government has recognized the critical intersection between climate change and public health, particularly in light of recent environmental disasters such as floods. Such events pose significant health risks, including the spread of infectious diseases and respiratory issues associated with environmental degradation. Climate change is increasingly being acknowledged not merely as an environmental crisis but as a pressing public health challenge. Awareness and education are crucial in mitigating these health impacts, which is the objective of the recent workshop organized by the state ministries.

In conclusion, the workshop organized by the Borno State Ministry of Health and its collaborators serves as a critical step towards increasing awareness about the health consequences of climate change. By engaging stakeholders and encouraging the dissemination of knowledge throughout communities, the initiative aims to address the health challenges exacerbated by recent environmental disasters. Continued efforts in public education and the promotion of sustainable practices will be essential in safeguarding community health against the backdrop of climate change.

Original Source: www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com