-In Nimba county
By Shallon Gonlor
NIMBA COUNTY — Pregnant women, babies, and children are facing dire health risks due to the impact of climate change in Nimba County. These vulnerable individuals are experiencing extreme poverty, hunger, and health challenges that demand immediate attention.
A plea from pregnant women at the Duo Tiayee Clinic Maternal Waiting Home in Nimba County District #2 points to the critical situation they are facing. They are lacking food and essential items, and they are reaching out to the public, philanthropists, and the Government of Liberia for assistance.
The effects of climate change on maternal and child health have been largely overlooked, leading to underestimated consequences for women, newborns, and children. These brave women are speaking out about the threats they face, including food shortages and extreme temperatures that are putting their health at risk.
The Officer-In-Charge of the Duo Tiayee Clinic, Precious Gaye, has emphasized the urgent need for sustainable food security measures and climate finance to address these risks.
Gaye has called on the Government of Liberia to take decisive action to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change on maternal and child health. She says every stakeholder, from governments to healthcare professionals, plays a critical role in championing policies and actions that protect the most vulnerable members of society.
The OIC believes the urgency to integrate the health needs of women, children, and adolescents into climate responses is not just a moral imperative but also an effective strategy for building resilient and healthy communities.
“Climate change is a major intergenerational injustice of our times. Safeguarding the health and rights of women, children, and adolescents is non-negotiable in the face of the climate crisis’’, said OIC, Precious Gaye.
UNDP 2023 report warns that if unchecked, the climate crisis may drive 135 million people into poverty by 2030. It considers 2023 as the hottest year on record.
