By Baba Yunus Muhammad

In the heart of Baita, a rural village in the Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano state, families face a desperate reality. For them, healthcare is not just a service—it’s a matter of life and death. One community leader, Rabi’u Abdulmuminu, shared a gut-wrenching personal account of the grave situation. His wife, heavily pregnant, was about to deliver their child when the most unimaginable tragedy occurred—one that could have been averted if healthcare facilities were better.

Rabi’u recounted the events with painful clarity. “It was late at night when my wife started to go into labor. But we soon realized there was a problem—she was struggling terribly due to the lack of proper medical care,” he said, his voice tinged with sorrow. “We had no choice but to rush her to the nearest hospital in Gezawa, but by the time we arrived, my wife had already lost the child. The baby passed away in her womb before we could even reach the hospital.”

The Stark Reality of Healthcare in Baita

The lack of reliable healthcare facilities in Baita is not a new problem. In fact, the existing Primary Health Centre (PHC), located just a few kilometers from the community, has been in a dilapidated state for years. “We fear that any day now, the PHC will collapse. Its walls are crumbling, the roof is leaking, and there is simply no equipment to treat patients,” said Alkasim Isiyaku, the Hakimi (traditional leader) of Baita. “We’ve written countless letters to the government asking them to repair and upgrade our healthcare center, but there has been no response. We’re literally watching lives slip away every day.”

The residents of Baita, already burdened by poor infrastructure, had to make a heartbreaking decision: they abandoned their clinic due to safety concerns, leaving it to deteriorate even further. In its place, the people of Baita and neighboring communities turned to a local two-room shop, transformed into a makeshift healthcare facility. While this small space might not have been ideal, it was their only option. Hajiya Zuwaira, a community activist and businesswoman, donated her shop to serve as a temporary health clinic in the absence of the failed public system.

“I couldn’t stand to watch women give birth with no care, knowing their lives were at risk. It’s why I decided to turn my shop into a small health post,” Hajiya Zuwaira shared. Her words reflect the painful truth of many communities across rural Kano and Nigeria as a whole: residents are often forced to step in where the government has failed.

Yet even with the makeshift space, the situation is still far from ideal. Women like Zainab find themselves in life-threatening situations due to lack of access to emergency services and vital care. Zainab’s story is no less devastating: “I have lost two children during childbirth due to poor medical facilities. I tried all I could to seek help, but the nearest hospital was miles away, and by the time I got there, it was too late,” she tearfully explained. For families like hers, having a proper health facility could have meant a different outcome, with the possibility of seeing their children thrive.

The Healthcare Crisis in Kano: A Regional Problem

Kano State, a commercial hub and Nigeria’s second most populous State, faces a crisis not just in maternal health but across a wide array of medical needs. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate stands at an alarming 814 deaths per 100,000 live births, one of the highest in the world. Kano’s rural population suffers the brunt of these numbers, where medical attention is often scarce.

Diseases like malaria, cholera, pneumonia, and diarrhea are rampant, killing thousands of children every year. The lack of access to vaccines, malaria treatment, and even basic prenatal care leads to preventable deaths, especially in villages like Baita where healthcare services are non-existent or inadequate.

These numbers paint a grim picture. However, it is not too late to make a difference, and initiatives like the Africa Healthcare Infrastructure Development Program (AHIDEP) provide a ray of hope amidst these hardships. With a strategic approach, AHIDEP aims to tackle many of these challenges head-on by reimagining the way healthcare is delivered in communities like Baita and across Kano State.

AHIDEP: A Solution for Transforming Kano’s Healthcare

The Africa Healthcare Infrastructure Development Program (AHIDEP), a flagship initiative of the Africa Islamic Economic Forum (AFRIEF), aims to revitalize primary healthcare in Africa by harnessing the latest technologies and Islamic finance. The initiative looks to overhaul inadequate healthcare systems and improve health outcomes across the continent—an endeavor that could be a game-changer for Kano state.

Through AHIDEP’s model, rural areas like Baita could gain access to quality medical care through remote consultations, digital health services, and better-equipped healthcare providers. These interventions have the potential to reverse the heartbreaking statistics surrounding maternal and child mortality.

A Future Shaped by Technology

One of the main components of AHIDEP is its collaboration with Glocal Healthcare Services—a major Indian healthcare technology provider. Glocal’s digital dispensary solutions and telemedicine infrastructure can dramatically extend healthcare coverage, allowing patients in remote areas to access care without the need to travel long distances.

By integrating telemedicine into the healthcare system, AHIDEP could help fill the void left by the shortage of trained professionals and improve the diagnosis and treatment of diseases at a distance. For women like Zainab and Rabi’u, telemedicine could mean instant access to medical consultations, preventive services, and emergency assistance—all of which can save lives before it’s too late.

Real-Time Impact: Training Local Healthcare Professionals

AHIDEP’s model also includes training programs for local healthcare workers, allowing them to effectively manage local health challenges, identify warning signs, and provide treatment. With a stronger, better-equipped healthcare workforce, many health-related issues—such as child mortality and maternal health complications—can be addressed through early intervention.

Furthermore, with training on using digital healthcare tools, health workers can gain the expertise to monitor patients remotely, drastically improving the quality of care available in communities where resources are sparse.

The Role of Public-Private Partnerships and Government

While AHIDEP holds significant promise, the role of government at both the state and national levels is crucial. Immediate action is needed to revamp existing health infrastructure, fund the expansion of healthcare access in rural areas, and support partnerships like AHIDEP. Government must prioritize the health of its citizens by increasing healthcare budget allocations, improving healthcare policies, and ensuring that public health centers are well-maintained and equipped.

At the same time, private sector involvement, through initiatives like AHIDEP, is a necessary supplement to governmental efforts. Private enterprises, community leaders, and social entrepreneurs must also contribute to solutions. Hajiya Zuwaira‘s contribution of a shop-turned-health clinic is a powerful example of how individuals can fill gaps left by government. However, this is unsustainable in the long term, and larger scale, systemic reform is essential.

A Call for Change

The loss of life due to healthcare negligence in Baita and similar communities across Kano state is a tragedy that must not go unaddressed. The government must act decisively to address the healthcare crisis, but there is also a pivotal opportunity for initiatives like AHIDEP to spearhead the long-term transformation needed in the healthcare sector.

As Nigeria continues to battle high maternal and infant mortality rates, the launch and expansion of AHIDEP’s projects in Kano state could provide a model for other states across the country. By improving infrastructure, harnessing the power of technology, and empowering local communities, the devastating healthcare challenges in Kano can begin to be addressed, ensuring a healthier future for the state’s children and families.

We can only hope that, in the future, the stories coming from Kano State and other parts of Nigeria will no longer be those of avoidable deaths and suffering. With commitment and cooperation between the public and private sectors, as well as international partners, the people of Kano—and beyond—can look forward to a healthier, safer tomorrow

By Our Special Correspondent

On August 31, 2024, Indonesia reached a significant milestone in its healthcare sector with the inauguration of two state-of-the-art hospitals by President Joko Widodo and Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). This event was part of a broader initiative to introduce six new hospitals across the nation, collectively adding over 1,000 beds to address the growing healthcare demands of Indonesia’s burgeoning population. This ambitious project not only aims to expand access to healthcare but also to bridge the gap in medical service availability, particularly in underserved areas—a challenge faced by many developing nations.

Two Hospitals Indonesia: Specialized Care Advancements

These new facilities are equipped with cutting-edge medical technologies and infrastructure, emphasizing specialized care, particularly in maternal and child health. Maternal and child health is a critical focus area globally, as it impacts the core of family and community well-being. High rates of maternal and infant mortality have been persistent challenges in Indonesia, as well as in many other developing countries. The targeted approach of these new hospitals aims to address these issues head-on by providing high-quality, specialized care.

Dr. Al Jasser emphasized the transformative potential of these hospitals on Indonesia’s healthcare landscape. The specialized care units for children and mothers are expected to provide life-saving treatments that could significantly reduce mortality rates and promote healthier futures for the country’s next generation. The use of advanced medical technologies in these hospitals also sets a new standard for healthcare delivery in Indonesia, providing models that other regions may replicate.

Sustainable Development and Strategic Partnerships

The development of these hospitals aligns closely with Indonesia’s broader sustainable development goals. Enhanced healthcare infrastructure not only meets immediate health needs but also supports long-term societal growth and stability. By prioritizing health, Indonesia is investing in its human capital, which is essential for sustained economic development and societal well-being. This investment is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

Indonesia’s prominent role as the third-largest shareholder in IsDB has enabled strategic use of funds and influence, resulting in substantial developmental gains. Over the last four years, IsDB has provided US$1.4 billion in financing for Indonesian health projects, making the country’s Health Ministry its biggest institutional partner. This substantial investment underscores a strong commitment not just to building hospitals but also to enhancing overall health systems and capacities. Such partnerships are crucial for sustainable development, as they bring together expertise, resources, and a shared vision for the future.

Economic and Employment Benefits

The construction and operation of these hospitals have far-reaching economic implications. The healthcare sector is a significant contributor to employment, and these new facilities are expected to generate numerous job opportunities, from medical professionals to support staff. This boost in local employment not only contributes to economic growth but also helps to alleviate poverty, as more families gain stable income sources. Moreover, better health outcomes lead to a more productive workforce, reducing the economic burden of healthcare costs on families and the government. Healthier populations are also better able to participate in the workforce, contributing to overall economic stability and growth.

The economic benefits of healthcare investments extend beyond direct employment. Improved healthcare infrastructure can attract foreign investment and partnerships, further stimulating economic growth. In addition, the increased capacity for medical tourism, which has become a significant industry in many countries, could be a potential avenue for Indonesia to explore, especially as the quality of healthcare continues to improve.

Regional Impact and Global Relevance

Indonesia’s advancements in healthcare infrastructure have implications beyond its national borders. Southeast Asia is witnessing a surge in healthcare investments, with countries recognizing the importance of robust health infrastructure to economic resilience and growth. Indonesia’s proactive efforts serve as a model for its neighbors, demonstrating the benefits of strategic investments and partnerships in healthcare. The lessons learned from Indonesia’s experience can be applied to other developing nations facing similar challenges, particularly in terms of integrating new technologies and expanding access to underserved populations.

Furthermore, Indonesia’s approach highlights the importance of aligning national health strategies with global health and development frameworks. The collaboration between Indonesia and IsDB is an example of how international partnerships can drive progress toward achieving global health goals. As countries across the globe strive to meet the SDGs, Indonesia’s experience offers valuable insights into the role of strategic partnerships, sustainable investments, and innovative solutions in overcoming healthcare challenges.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite these significant advancements, integrating new technologies and facilities into the existing healthcare system presents challenges. Ensuring that these hospitals are not just well-equipped but also effectively integrated with Indonesia’s broader health network is crucial. This requires comprehensive planning and coordination at multiple levels, including training for specialized care, maintenance of high-tech equipment, and ensuring sustainable operations. The success of these hospitals depends not only on their initial construction but also on their ability to function effectively and sustainably over the long term.

Moreover, addressing the healthcare needs of a diverse and geographically dispersed population like Indonesia requires ongoing efforts to expand access to quality care. This includes not only building new facilities but also improving transportation infrastructure, increasing healthcare education and training, and addressing social determinants of health. By taking a holistic approach to healthcare development, Indonesia can ensure that its investments yield lasting benefits for its population.

A Global Perspective on Health

The inauguration of these hospitals in Indonesia is more than just the opening of new facilities; it represents a forward-thinking approach to healthcare that prioritizes quality, accessibility, and sustainability. The collaborative efforts of the Indonesian government and IsDB are commendable, showcasing a commitment not only to enhancing healthcare but also to investing in the nation’s long-term development and prosperity. This initiative sets a precedent for healthcare excellence and strategic development, promising a healthier, more resilient Indonesia.

As these facilities begin their operations, they offer a hopeful glimpse into the future of healthcare in Indonesia and highlight the potential for similar advancements across the region. The success of Indonesia’s healthcare strategy could inspire other nations to pursue similar approaches, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation and the sharing of best practices in health and development.

Indonesia’s recent healthcare advancements underscore the critical role of strategic investments and international partnerships in achieving global health and development goals. By focusing on sustainability, community impact, and innovation, Indonesia is setting a new standard for healthcare in Southeast Asia and beyond. The lessons learned from this initiative can inform global health strategies, demonstrating that with the right resources, partnerships, and vision, even the most significant healthcare challenges can be overcome.

As the world continues to grapple with complex health issues, Indonesia’s example serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in health as a cornerstone of development. By prioritizing healthcare, nations can build stronger, more resilient societies that are better equipped to face the challenges of the future. The story of Indonesia’s healthcare transformation is a testament to the power of strategic planning, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving live