Community First: Advancing Maternal, Child and Community Health Through Service Above Self
A DAY OF HOPE, HEALING AND HUMANITARIAN SERVICE
On June 26, 2026, Ajao Primary Health Centre became a vibrant centre of hope, compassion and life-saving healthcare as the Rotary Club of Apakun, in partnership with Rotary International and dedicated healthcare professionals, brought the annual Rotary Family Health Day to the community. Driven by the enduring Rotary commitment to improving lives through meaningful community service, the initiative provided free medical attention, preventive screenings, health education and essential treatments to more than 150 residents, with particular attention to women, expectant mothers, children and adolescent girls.
BRINGING ESSENTIAL HEALTHCARE CLOSER TO THE PEOPLE
The comprehensive outreach delivered critical screenings for malaria, blood pressure, blood glucose, Hepatitis B and HIV, complemented by professional counselling and preventive health education. Expectant mothers received insecticide-treated mosquito nets to strengthen malaria prevention, while children benefited from routine deworming and basic medications, including Paracetamol and Vitamin C. Adolescent girls received free sanitary pads to support menstrual hygiene, alongside advocacy on the importance of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer, while eligible adults received family planning counselling.
PREVENTION, EDUCATION AND EMPOWERMENT
Beyond the immediate medical interventions, the programme equipped residents with valuable knowledge for recognising and managing health risks such as hypertension and diabetes, reinforcing the importance of early detection, prevention and responsible health choices. The initiative demonstrated that effective community healthcare goes beyond treatment—it empowers people with the knowledge and resources needed to protect their health and wellbeing.
WHEN SERVICE TRANSFORMS COMMUNITIES
The impressive turnout reaffirmed the transformative power of accessible healthcare and community-centred service. Through the collective efforts of Rotary International, Rotary Club of Apakun, healthcare volunteers and community leaders, the outreach not only addressed pressing health needs but also strengthened awareness, dignity and hope within the Ajao community.
A LASTING LEGACY OF SERVICE ABOVE SELF
The successful outreach stands as another compelling demonstration of Rotary’s Service Above Self philosophy and the profound impact that purposeful collaboration can make in building healthier and more resilient communities. By bringing essential healthcare directly to those who need it most, the Rotary Club of Apakun continues to demonstrate that when communities come first, lives are touched, hope is renewed and healthier futures become possible.
