Hauwa Tanko, a teenage mother has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for her community through Community Health Influencers Promoters and Services (CHIPS) programme in Michika Local Government, Adamawa State.
The CHIPS programme was being implemented by Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ADPHCDA) with support from UNICEF.
Tanko, a young mother who found herself navigating a world of uncertainties as a teenager in Michika, faced with limited education and lack of resources, struggled to provide for her child and faced numerous health challenges.
However, her life took an unexpected turn when she encountered the CHIPS programme in her community.
“Through the CHIPS program, she received comprehensive training and mentorship, equipping her with knowledge about maternal and child health, disease prevention, and the importance of healthcare access.
“This newfound knowledge not only empowered Hauwa personally but also ignited a passion within her to make a difference for others facing similar struggles.
Hauwa Tanko’s personal experiences assisted her to became a dedicated community health influencer through CHIPS.
She now actively engages with young mothers, providing them with crucial support, guidance, and information on safe pregnancy, Antenatal care(ANC), postnatal care, and nutrition.
Hauwa’s empathetic approach and relatable experiences have made her a trusted advocate within the community.
One of the most significant impacts, Hauwa was made a community health influencer breaking cultural barriers and dispelling prevailing misconceptions around healthcare.
She fearlessly tackles long-standing taboos, encouraging young girls and women to seek medical care without hesitation.
By sharing her own journey, Hauwa has become a living testament to how professional healthcare can transform lives.
Beyond her immediate impact, Hauwa envisions a brighter future for her community.
Hauwa Tanko thanked and appreciated Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ADPHCDA) and UNICEF for implementing the programme and for given her the opportunity.
Hauwa Tanko further expressed her intention to pursue further education in healthcare to enable her continue to make a difference in the lives of other people.
