As part of effort to eliminate power-related risks in childbirth across the nation’s capital, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, has unveiled the “Light Every Birth”, LEB, initiative at the Kuje
The initiative, spearheaded by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat in collaboration with a nonprofit organisation, We Care Solar, WCS, is aimed at strengthening maternal and newborn healthcare delivery in the FCT.
Speaking last week, during the launch of the initiative at the Kuje General Hospital, the Mandate Secretary, FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, described the initiative as a life-saving intervention that aligns with the vision of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to guarantee quality healthcare for all residents, regardless of status or location.
The secretary, who was represented by the permanent secretary, Dr. Baba-Gana Adam, the said the initiative was more than a technical deployment, “it is about saving lives. Every mother deserves to give birth in a safe, well-lit environment, and every child deserves a healthy start in life.”
Adam noted that through the support of We Care Solar, over 200 healthcare facilities across the FCT have already been equipped with solar suitcases, a compact power system designed specifically for maternal and newborn care. The systems provide reliable lighting, mobile charging, and fetal monitoring capabilities in off-grid and underpowered health centers.
The LEB initiative is also empowering women through its solar ambassador program, which trains them as solar technicians, thereby promoting economic inclusion while enhancing health outcomes.
On his part, the Senior Director of Healthcare Programs at We Care Solar, Dr. Ambrose Muhwezi, warned that erratic power supply continues to contribute to preventable maternal and neonatal deaths in developing countries.
He said the foundation is committed to ensuring no birth is left in the dark, “Our mission is simple but profound to end energy poverty in maternal health. With each solar suitcase, we are giving health workers the power to save lives,” Muhwezi said.
Acting Executive Secretary of the FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Ruqqaya Wamakko, shared testimonials from frontline workers, illustrating how solar lighting has transformed clinical care and improved safety for both patients and providers.
The event which saw the equipping of the maternity ward of Kuje General Hospital with solar-powered electricity to ensure uninterrupted care.
Abuja residents brace for 2-week water disruption
Residents of the Federal Capital Territory may face shortage of water in the coming days, as the FCT Water Board embarks on rehabilitation work at the Lower Usuma Dam water treatment facilities.
According to the board, the planned maintenance will involve the connection of new electro-mechanical equipment—an essential component of the ongoing upgrade project aimed at improving the efficiency and reliability of water supply across the territory.
The disruption, which commenced on Friday, May 30, will continue through Friday, June 13, 2025, affecting both the city centre and satellite communities that rely on the dam for their daily water needs.
In a statement issued to the public, the Water Board urged residents to prepare by storing sufficient water to meet their needs during the period and to consider alternative sources to supplement their supply.
“In view of this development, the FCT Water Board hereby appeals to the residents, particularly its customers, to kindly store water that may last them through this period, including an alternative supply to augment their needs,” the statement read.
The board expressed regret over the inconvenience the situation may cause, assuring the public that the rehabilitation work is necessary to enhance future service delivery.
