Bayelsa Governor’s
Wife, Mrs Rachael Dickson, has charged Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) in the state to adopt best practice to reduce infant mortality rate, especially in the rural areas.
Mrs Dickson, who gave the charge in Yenagoa at the opening of a two-day workshop for TBAs, was represented by her Senior Special Assistant on General Duties, Mrs Vivian Odiowei.
According to her, TBAs, as people endowed with natural skills, are of great importance to the society.
“It is true that government should provide hospitals in all communities but I still believe that you people are so important to the society; that is why God has kept some of you near the people.
“The reason is that you people have empathy for pregnant women; I urge you to take advantage of this workshop which is also designed to address issues like HIV/AIDs and other related issues.
“We have observed that new born babies sometimes die due to lack of proper care, resulting from the materials you use.
“So, it is high time you sought best practice because the more training you get, the more experience you will gather,” Mrs Dickson said.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Ebiere Adeh, said the training was part of the state government efforts to reduce maternal and neo-natal mortality rate in the state.
“TBAs, until they are replaced by sufficient skilled birth attendants, remain an option for rural women in our state and country at large,” Adeh said.