UNICEF-Supports Mama2Mama Initiative Transforms Maternal Health in Dass LGA

By Uzairu Dauda Bunga:

A woman who narrowly survived complications after delivering her baby at home in Dot Village, of Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi State, has become a leading advocate against unsafe home delivery.

Malama Atika Yau, Chairperson of the Mama2Mama Group in Dot District, recounted how she lost consciousness due to excessive bleeding after giving birth at home to one of her children.
The experience, she said, nearly cost her life due to excessive bleeding, describing it as a painful lesson.

she described home delivery without skilled care as a dangerous practice that exposes both mother and child at risk.
Determined to prevent other families from facing similar experience, Malama Atika pledged to campaign against home delivery and promote safer alternatives. saying, her resolve found direction when UNICEF introduced the Mama2Mama initiative in the area, with support from Global Affairs Canada.

The programme mobilizes women to advocate for improved maternal and child health practices, including hospital delivery under the supervision of trained health professionals.

As a group leader, Malama Atika now champions campaigns for antenatal care attendance, facility-based delivery, exclusive breastfeeding, immunization, and child spacing.
Malama Atika expressed gratitude to the Canadian government, through UNICEF, for supporting lifesaving interventions in Bauchi State.