On the streets of Durumi District, Area 1, Garki Abuja, the scene of makeshift shanties constructed from zinc sheets hints at an internally displaced persons (IDPs) settlement.
The gravity of the situation becomes clear at the heart of the camp, where 3,300 displaced persons reside, including 1,400 children and 330 households, enduring the harsh conditions of what resembles a forest area for nearly a decade.
Durumi settlement in Garki stands as one of the 18 IDP camps in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, established on August 28, 2014.
Mrs. Liyatu Ayuba, the Woman Leader for Durumi IDP Camp Area 1, lamented the government’s neglect, stating that the community survives solely through their own efforts.
She emphasized the increasing population, which forces residents to fend for themselves, highlighting the challenges faced by women and children, who often suffer from various health issues.
To address their plight, MedGlobe Initiative, a non-profit organization comprising dedicated health professionals, conducted a medical outreach in the camp.
The initiative coincided with World Health Day, aiming to raise awareness about healthcare and provide essential services to those in need.
Augustine Bassey, the Executive Assistant of MedGlobe Initiative, explained that the outreach targeted individuals lacking access to healthcare, including those living in IDP camps.
During the outreach, essential medical supplies such as drugs, immune boosters, mosquito repellents, and health packs containing sanitary pads and toothbrushes were distributed.
Testing sessions identified IDPs suffering from high blood pressure, malnutrition, ulcers, malaria, diabetes, and various other illnesses.
Mrs. Liyatu expressed profound gratitude for the intervention, noting that most assistance received by the camp comes from individuals, families, and charitable organizations.
She highlighted the dire financial constraints faced by residents, making basic healthcare unaffordable, and praised MedGlobe for providing medical services free of charge.
Augustine Bassey urged against self-medication and drug abuse, emphasizing the importance of professional medical assistance, especially in vulnerable communities like IDP camps.
The initiative underscores the vital role of organizations in addressing healthcare disparities and extending support to marginalized populations, ultimately fostering healthier and more resilient communities.
