The Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN), in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, has launched a hearing aid distribution programme empowering farmers, youths, and other persons with hearing disabilities across Nigeria.
The initiative, part of the WOFAN-ICON2 Project, began in Abuja by distributing 50 rechargeable hearing aids from a total of 1,100 earmarked for beneficiaries in various project states.
Speaking at the flag-off, WOFAN-ICON2 Project Country Director, Dr Salamatu Garba, said the effort restored dignity to people with hearing loss from birth, early childhood, or adulthood. Many, she noted, had lost jobs and self-worth due to their condition.
“There’s nothing more heartwarming than seeing people who thought life was worthless respond to conversations because they can now hear,” Dr Garba said, adding that the high cost of hearing aids had previously kept many from accessing them.
WOFAN’s Business Development Manager, Mr Taiwo Olawale, explained that beneficiaries would receive same-day screening, fitting, and training from Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists to ensure proper use and maintenance of the devices.
The project also embraces inclusivity, targeting women with disabilities, including those with visual impairments and albinism.
Dr Munir Anka, ENT Specialist at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, said each recipient underwent medical and audiological screening before being provided with rechargeable hearing aids, a sustainable option for unemployed beneficiaries.
One recipient, Precious Usman, expressed gratitude, noting that the device would enable her to return to farming and support her family.
The MasterCard Foundation aims to reach 30 million African youths, including 10 million in Nigeria, with one million young people with disabilities benefiting from various empowerment initiatives.
The WOFAN Technical Board Chairman, Professor Sani Miko, described the programme as timely and impactful, bridging communication gaps, improving the quality of life, and restoring beneficiaries’ dignity.
Source: The Nation
Image Credit: WOFAN
