Expansion of the Together for Healthy Families Initiative in Nigeria
The Rotary Foundation has announced a significant expansion of its flagship initiative,Together for Healthy Families in Nigeria, with total funding now approaching $5 million. This development marks a major milestone in the organization’s efforts to improve maternal and child health across the country.
During an interactive session with the Rotary Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal, and Child Health (Rotary-RMCH) in Abuja, Holger Knaack, Chair of the Rotary Foundation, highlighted the program’s impact on the African continent. He described it as one of Rotary’s most impactful interventions, emphasizing the foundation’s focus on large-scale, measurable projects that deliver sustainable results.
Knaack explained that the foundation’s development strategy is centered around initiatives that create lasting change. “Our goal is always impact—not just doing good, but doing the right thing and being able to measure it. Bigger projects have greater, measurable results,” he said.
TheTogether for Healthy Families in Nigeriaprogram initially started as a $2 million initiative but has since gained international support. Through partnerships with countries like Germany, the program has raised approximately $2.8 million, bringing the total investment close to $5 million. Additionally, the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation has pledged another $5 million over the next few years to ensure the program’s continued success.
Ijeoma Pearl Okoro, Trustee of the Rotary Foundation, called the project a milestone for Nigeria, noting that it is only the secondProgramme of Scaleapproved by the foundation globally. This recognition underscores the program’s significance and potential for long-term impact.
Prof. Adedolapo Emmanuel Lufadeju, the National Coordinator and Country Director of the program, explained that the initiative reflects Rotary’s long-standing commitment to improving maternal and infant health. The program aims to enhance access to quality healthcare for mothers and newborns.
Implementation of the program began in November 2022 across four states: the FCT (Abuja Municipal Area Council), Nasarawa (Akwanga and Lafia LGAs), Gombe (Gombe and Yamaltu-Deba LGAs), and Ekiti (Ado-Ekiti and Ijero LGAs). It covered 49 health facilities initially.
Lufadeju noted that due to the program’s success, as of July 2025, it has expanded to 103 facilities across the four locations. This expansion highlights the positive outcomes achieved so far and the potential for further growth.
Key Achievements and Future Goals
- Funding Growth: The program has grown from a $2 million initiative to nearly $5 million, with additional support from the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation.
- Geographic Expansion: Initially covering 49 health facilities, the program has now expanded to 103 facilities across four states.
- International Collaboration: Partnerships with countries such as Germany have played a crucial role in increasing the program’s reach and impact.
- Sustainability Focus: The program emphasizes long-term solutions, ensuring that improvements in maternal and child health are maintained over time.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the program has achieved significant progress, challenges remain in ensuring consistent service delivery across all regions. Addressing these challenges will require ongoing collaboration between local authorities, healthcare providers, and international partners.
Looking ahead, the program aims to continue expanding its reach and deepening its impact. By focusing on measurable outcomes and sustainable practices,Together for Healthy Families in Nigeriasets a strong example for similar initiatives worldwide.