Benue IDP Camp Reports Astonishing Birth Rate Of 200 Babies Per Month

Benue IDP Camp Reports Astonishing Birth Rate Of 200 Babies Per Month....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Benue State currently hosts over 1.5 million Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across numerous camps, a result of persistent attacks by armed herdsmen. These camps, spanning various local government areas like Guma and Makurdi, are home to displaced farmers who fled their ancestral lands.

Despite the harsh conditions in these camps, which include inadequate food, healthcare, and sleeping arrangements, there’s a surprising trend: a notable increase in childbirths among the IDPs.

Recent assessments conducted by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) at camps like Ortese in Guma LGA revealed startling figures. In just one month, over 200 births were recorded in this camp alone, highlighting a significant challenge for healthcare services already strained by limited resources.

The high birth rate, while typically a cause for celebration, poses unique challenges in an IDP setting. Access to proper healthcare and adequate nutrition for newborns and mothers remains a critical issue. Cases of malnutrition have been reported among children, underscoring the dire circumstances these families endure.

Interestingly, amidst these hardships, there is a surprising source of comfort for some IDPs. Many residents attest that despite the challenges, intimate relations with their spouses bring them happiness and help alleviate their pains.

An IDP, Anngu, shared his perspective: “Despite living in the camp, we find solace in being together with our spouses. It helps us cope with our situation.” However, he acknowledged the need for family planning to prevent unplanned pregnancies, a sentiment echoed by health officials.

Mrs. Grace Wende, Executive Secretary of the Benue State Primary Health Care Board, expressed concern over the high birth rate and emphasized the necessity of promoting family planning services among IDPs, particularly targeting men who often resist these efforts.

She highlighted the complex dynamics within the camps, noting instances of remarriage among women and men, which further complicates family planning efforts. Mrs. Wende underscored the importance of intensified advocacy and support from governmental and non-governmental organizations to address these challenges effectively.

In conclusion, while the IDPs of Benue State face immense hardships, including inadequate healthcare and living conditions, they also find moments of joy and resilience amidst their struggles. Efforts to support these communities must prioritize comprehensive healthcare, family planning education, and advocacy tailored to their unique needs.