Toyin Ojora Saraki has spent over two decades working to improve women’s and children’s healthcare across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. As the founder and president of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), Saraki has played a significant role in shaping healthcare practices and policies that directly impact communities. She seeks to see that every woman and child can access the healthcare services they need to thrive.
Saraki is deeply involved in the practical aspects of healthcare delivery. One of WBFA’s core initiatives is the Antenatal and Postnatal Maternal Care program, which operates across 655 health facilities in Nigeria with about 74 midwives in full support. These midwives provide essential care and educate expectant mothers on the importance of prenatal and postnatal health, creating an informed network of caregivers.
This approach has significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality in communities where it operates. In addition, WBFA’s efforts to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices further enhance health outcomes, addressing critical challenges vulnerable populations face.
Central to Saraki’s work is her midwifery support. Through WBFA, she has been a tireless advocate for recognising midwives as essential healthcare providers, ensuring they receive more significant financial support and improved working conditions. These midwives, who often face challenging working environments, are now receiving better training and resources, empowering them to provide quality care to pregnant women and newborns. This initiative has helped bridge a significant gap in maternal healthcare across the region, with midwives becoming more empowered and effective.
The healthcare reformer strongly believes that education is a powerful tool for uplifting communities, especially for women and children. WBFA’s programs are designed to disassemble barriers such as gender-based violence and discrimination, creating more equitable opportunities for all. By championing gender equality, Saraki is creating a society where women and children can thrive, free from the limitations that often hinder their progress.
Over the years, Toyin Saraki has partnered with organisations like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Medela, and Nutrition International to amplify WBFA’s impact across various regions. Her role as the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Ambassador for Global Health further demonstrates her leadership in advancing health initiatives on a global stage, highlighting her ongoing commitment to improving maternal and child health worldwide.
Toyin Saraki’s work with WBFA has genuinely transformed the lives of women and children in Nigeria. Her relentless dedication to improving healthcare and creating opportunities for empowerment is reshaping maternal and child healthcare in Nigeria.
