In a strategic move aimed at strengthening maternal healthcare delivery in Zamfara State, Grand Challenges Nigeria in partnership with the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), installed a Solar Birth Kit at the Shagari Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Gusau Local Government Area on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. The initiative is expected to significantly improve safe childbirth, lighting, and emergency response services at the facility, which serves several communities within the LGA.
Installation activities commenced at approximately 1:00 p.m. following the arrival of installation equipment and technical personnel from Kebbi State. The process, which lasted about four hours, included mounting solar panels and the internal lighting system, followed by operational testing. The kit provides reliable lighting and power sources required for deliveries conducted at night, vaccine storage, and essential medical procedures critical needs in facilities where electricity supply remains unstable.
Following the installation, engineers led a practical training session for CFHI field officers and health workers at Shagari PHC. The training focused on safe usage, battery maintenance, troubleshooting, and documentation of power output for service records. This capacity building effort is expected to enhance sustainability and ensure that healthcare workers maximize the support offered by the Solar Birth Kit.
The equipment was formally handed over to the Officer-in-Charge of the facility and representatives of the host community, symbolizing joint ownership and accountability. Traditional leaders expressed appreciation for the intervention, noting that improved lighting and equipment support will benefit pregnant women, particularly during night-time emergencies.
Although installation began behind schedule due to delayed arrival of equipment resulting in health workers waiting several hours beyond their duty time the activity was fully completed by 5:12 p.m. The successful deployment of the Solar Birth Kit stands as a notable milestone toward ensuring safer maternal care in underserved areas. CFHI urged government agencies and development partners to prioritise infrastructural upgrades at PHCs to complement such projects and guarantee quality healthcare delivery for women and children across the state.