Free health for all: Thousands benefit in Far North Region in few days.

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Public Health, under the supervision of Dr Manaouda Malachie, was organised for several days in parts of the Far North Region.

At healthcare facilities, consultation sites, and various deployment points, large numbers of people received free care, screenings, treatments, and surgical procedures. 

At the conclusion of the extensive campaign, the figures reflected the scale of the effort. As per organisers, 533,771 people were reached, while 243,285 consultations were conducted.

Behind the statistics are thousands of patients who were able to access healthcare they might not otherwise have sought under the same circumstances. 

From cataracts and general surgery to dental care, malaria, HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, and obstetric fistulas, the campaign covered a wide range of health needs.

According to organisers, the results of this year’s campaign are particularly impressive. Over 1,554 people underwent cataract surgery, enabling patients to regain, in some cases, greater visual independence.

In addition, 1,742 general surgeries and 1,016 dental procedures were performed. Prevention and screening also played a significant role in the initiative. A total of 14,895 HIV tests, 8,386 hepatitis screenings, and 4,479 tuberculosis screenings were conducted.

Malaria, which remains one of the region’s major public health challenges, was not overlooked. Some 9,444 cases were treated during the operation.

Another particularly significant indicator of the scale of demand included 267,631 prescriptions which were offered free of charge. The figure alone, officials say, reflects the number of patients who required therapeutic care in addition to a consultation.

Maternal health not left out

The campaign also paid special attention to women facing the consequences of obstetric complications. As a result, 61 women underwent surgery for obstetric fistulas, a condition that can have serious medical, social, and psychological consequences.

The blood donation component also mobilized the community. Some 832 people were recruited as donors, resulting in the collection of 137 units of blood.

At the same time, 61,751 people were enrolled in the Universal Health Coverage, UHC programme, adding another dimension to the initiative, which was not limited to curative care but also sought to enroll more people in health protection programs.

Behind the mobilization, the Ministry of Public Health deployed a significant team of medical and support staff. Leading the effort, Dr Manaouda Malachie, a native of the Far North, closely monitored the operation’s progress.

The minister’s on-the-ground presence, observers say, reflected a commitment to bringing health services closer to the people, particularly in a region where economic hardships, distance, and access to care can still pose significant obstacles.

The Minister of Public Health said the campaign was part of the government’s policy of providing free and accessible healthcare, with a special focus on the most vulnerable populations.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3906 of Friday September 11, 2026