The Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN)has announced the launch of an Emergency andHazard Fund dedicated tosupporting the Association ofNigeria Health Journalists (ANHeJ).
Dr Aminu Magashi, Coordinator of AHBN, made the announcement during a roundtable with ANHeJ’s executive council in Abuja.
Magashi explained that the fund aims to provide financial assistance to journalists facing personal emergencies or hazards while reporting on health-related issues.
Acknowledging the risks and challenges encountered by health journalists, particularly during health emergencies, he emphasised the critical role these journalists play in disseminating accurate information to the public.
He outlined the fund’s purpose as offering financial support to ANHeJ members in times of personal emergencies, ensuring they can continue their essential work without undue hardship.
He reiterated AHBN’s commitment to the well-being of health journalists and highlighted the importance of creating a supportive environment for their professional growth and development.
He underscored the significance of collaboration between AHBN and ANHeJ in commissioning the fund to address the specific needs of journalists in the healthcare sector.
Joseph Kadiri, President of ANHeJ, expressed gratitude to AHBN for its commitment to supporting the association.
Kadiri emphasised the importance of the Emergency and Hazards Fund in alleviating financial burdens for health journalists, enabling them to fulfill their vital role in society.
Mohammed Usman, Chairman of the National Advocates for Health (NA4H), commended AHBN for its foresight and generosity in commissioning the fund.
Usman emphasised the importance of collaboration between organizations dedicated to promoting journalists’ welfare and advancing health journalism in Nigeria.
Racheal Abujah, Vice President of ANHeJ, highlighted the challenges faced by health journalists in covering Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Abujah emphasised the need for comprehensive safety measures, including insurance and training, to support journalists in their work.
She called on health organizations and agencies to view journalists as partners in progress and emulate AHBN’s initiative in supporting health journalists.
