World Bank Donates 196 Laptops To Boost Health Information Management in Cross River
In a significant effort to enhance the digital management of health information in Cross River State, the World Bank has donated 196 laptops through the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress (IMPACT) Project. These laptops will be distributed to health records units across Primary Health Centres in the state’s 196 wards, aimed at accelerating coverage and improving monitoring and evaluation services.
The IMPACT Project, funded by the World Bank, is focused on reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, as well as tackling malaria and under-five mortality rates. The project marks a pivotal step in the state’s ongoing health reforms.
Governor Bassey Otu, speaking while receiving the equipment in Calabar on Wednesday, expressed deep appreciation for the World Bank’s contributions to the improvement of healthcare services in Cross River State. He highlighted the state’s commitment to healthcare, noting that health is a primary priority in governance, as it directly impacts the well-being of the population.
“Health has continued to be one of our very major priorities. It is true that without health, of course, we wouldn’t even have a state. That is why you can bear me witness that most of the projects that have come out in terms of counterparts funding, we have engaged all of them,” Governor Otu said.
He also revealed that over 5 billion Naira has been allocated in the 2025 budget to improve primary health facilities, along with plans to roll out a health insurance scheme. “We’re working very hard to come out with the best health insurance for our people,” Otu added.
The Governor stressed the importance of making sure the donated laptops and systems were effectively used, urging local government chairmen and ward councillors to ensure the tools are put into operation rather than sitting unused.
Dr. Paul Odey, the IMPACT Project Manager, further explained the project’s impact, noting that while Cross River State was initially not part of the project, the administration’s “People’s First” approach made it possible for the state to join the initiative. He emphasized that the project focuses on immunization, malaria prevention, and training health attendants, especially in rural areas, to ensure broader accessibility to health services.
“This project primarily focuses on immunization for children under five, malaria prevention, and pregnant women, as well as training and sensitization of health attendants,” Dr. Odey said.
The introduction of the laptops and ongoing efforts from the state government signify a promising future for the state’s healthcare system and its ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for its citizens.
