The management of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku-Awka, has praised the humanitarian efforts of Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières, MSF) for its contributions to healthcare development and support for vulnerable populations in Anambra State.
The commendation was made during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting organized by MSF in Awka, which focused on improving response services for survivors of sexual violence and strengthening collaboration among healthcare providers and other relevant institutions involved in gender-based violence management.
The event brought together key players in the health sector, including representatives of the Anambra State Ministry of Health and other stakeholders. Participants examined strategies for expanding access to quality healthcare services, psychosocial support, and effective referral pathways for survivors of sexual abuse. Discussions also highlighted the importance of stronger institutional partnerships to ensure comprehensive care and protection for victims.
Speaking at the programme, the Chief Medical Director of COOUTH, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, represented by the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Dr. Nnaemeka Umedum, and the Deputy Chairman, Dr. Ifeoma Njelita, reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to building stronger partnerships with primary and secondary healthcare facilities across Anambra State.
She emphasized the importance of a functional referral system in ensuring timely access to specialized medical care, particularly for survivors of sexual violence. According to her, effective collaboration among healthcare institutions remains critical to improving treatment outcomes and supporting victims throughout their recovery process.
Dr. Umeakuewulu also expressed COOUTH’s readiness to work closely with the Primary Healthcare Centre in Okpuno and other healthcare facilities involved in the management of sexual violence cases, noting that prompt referrals and coordinated care are essential components of quality healthcare delivery.
She further stated that the teaching hospital remains dedicated to providing patient-centered healthcare services while strengthening partnerships that enhance service delivery across the health sector.
According to the CMD, COOUTH is steadily advancing its vision of becoming a leading center of medical excellence, offering specialized healthcare services, professional expertise, and compassionate care to residents of Anambra State and beyond.
