The Ebonyi State Government has formally adopted and sustained the Baby Shower Initiative introduced by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Integrated Health Program (IHP) to improve maternal and child health outcomes in the state.
The initiative, which began under USAID IHP, encourages pregnant women to deliver in healthcare facilities by providing them with “Mama Kits” containing essential items such as Mackintosh, diapers, soap, sanitary pads, hand gloves, and Chlorhexidine gel. The program aims to discourage reliance on traditional birth attendants and promote safer delivery practices.
One of the state facilitators of the project, Stephen Uchenna Anioke, in a press release said since its inception, the initiative has led to an increase in facility-based deliveries. USAID IHP, in collaboration with the state government, distributed over 10,000 Mama Kits to 212 health facilities across the state and trained more than 800 healthcare workers in maternal health, child health, and family planning.
Following the exit of USAID IHP, the Ebonyi State Government on May 17, 2025, officially domesticated the initiative and expanded its implementation to all primary and secondary health facilities across the state.
The wife of the Governor, Her Excellency Chief Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwaifuru, has played a key role in supporting the continuation of the program.
According to the state government, the initiative is expected to help reduce maternal and child mortality rates by promoting facility-based deliveries and strengthening the quality of care in public health institutions.
