The Wise Up Calabar initiative, a well-established program, has been offering vital healthcare services to underserved women, children, and men who face financial barriers to accessing medical care during the Calabar Festival. Since its inception, Wise Up calabar has partnered with various healthcare professionals to provide these services free of charge every December, ensuring that many vulnerable individuals receive necessary medical attention.
Before officially launching the 2024 Free Medical Center at the Christmas Village, a meeting was held with the Commissioner for Health in his office. During this session, the Commissioner, Dr. Ayuk, welcomed the initiative’s team and reaffirmed his strong support for their work. He emphasized the importance of expanding the services to make this December festival season even more impactful, in line with the festival’s theme, the “Season of Sweetness.”
Mr. Edmond Oka, the Supervisor for Wise up calabar 2024, outlined the key medical services that would be available during the outreach.
Free medical services by Wise up calabar initiatives
These services include malaria testing, family planning, cervical cancer screening, hepatitis testing, blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring, HIV testing, doctor consultations, and the distribution of condoms.
How long will wise up 2024 free healthcare initiatives last
Mr Oka also noted that Wise up 2024 healthcare services will be available daily from December 9th to 28th, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
WISEUP 2024 is expanding its outreach by not only offering free healthcare but also creating a welcoming, engaging environment for visitors. In addition to medical services, there will be side attractions like chess, monopoly, scrabble, snake and ladder, and Whot games. Health awareness videos will also be displayed, offering tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the community.
Mr. Oka emphasized that the 2024 initiative aims to provide comprehensive health services while also fostering a sense of community and wellness. He encouraged everyone to take advantage of the free services and join in the festive activities. Obaseokanke Ofem Willie, a representative of the initiative, urged individuals, especially those unable to afford private healthcare, to make use of the services offered.
Sly Etimita, Head of the Mobilization Unit for WISEUP, praised the Cross River State Government for supporting this initiative in December 2024. He encouraged citizens to actively participate and benefit from the free healthcare services being provided.
Nurse Atim Ekpo (Mrs. Darlington), who is part of the Family Planning Unit at WISEUP, highlighted the free family planning services available, along with other essential health services. She urged residents to take advantage of these opportunities, noting that the government and health partners are working together to tackle health challenges in the state.
One of the beneficiaries, Elder Achibong, expressed gratitude for the services, particularly appreciating the HIV prevention efforts, which include free condom distribution and HIV testing. The WISEUP initiative continues to make a significant impact on public health, offering vital resources to those who need it most.
