On November 3, 2026, Niger's Minister of Health and Public Hygiene, Colonel-major Garba Hakimi, continued his visit to the Agadez region, focusing on the Tchirozérine department. He was accompanied by the region's governor, General Ibra Boulama Issa. The visit aimed to assess the healthcare infrastructure and identify areas for improvement. The minister emphasized the importance of local healthcare facilities and encouraged the population to utilize them regularly.
During his visit, Minister Hakimi inspected several healthcare facilities, including the CSI de type I de Gofat Est, the case de santé de Tchintabizguine, the CSI urbain de Tchirozérine under construction, the CSI Mission, and a polyclinic construction site. The polyclinic is a result of cooperation between Niger and Algeria. At each facility, the minister received presentations on human resources, infrastructure, equipment, and performance indicators. He also listened to concerns expressed by healthcare workers and provided solutions.
At the CSI de type I de Gofat Est, which serves a population of approximately 4,850 inhabitants, the minister noted encouraging results in epidemiological surveillance and vaccination. However, the assisted delivery rate remains low at 19.79%. The facility faces challenges, including limited space, no ambulance, and insufficient support staff. The minister's team discussed potential solutions, such as extending the facility and allocating resources in the 2027 investment plan.
The case de santé de Tchintabizguine faces significant challenges, including a single contract agent and no transportation means. A motorcycle is necessary to facilitate mobility and interventions. Despite these challenges, the facility benefits from partnerships that support community relays, distribute impregnated mosquito nets, and establish infant and young child feeding groups.
The CSI Mission, established in 1965 by missionaries, serves a population of approximately 8,132 inhabitants. The facility has 15 staff members, including one general practitioner, five nurses, and two midwives. However, it requires six additional staff members. The facility has one functional motorcycle but no ambulance. Two nearby health centers, Inghighi and Imboragan, are non-functional due to staff shortages.
The minister also visited the construction site of the CSI urbain de Tchirozérine, which is nearing completion. The project, funded by Algerian cooperation, aims to strengthen healthcare services and improve access to healthcare for the local population. The visit highlighted the efforts made by healthcare workers, progress in various health indicators, and existing gaps that require support from authorities and partners.
The visit demonstrates the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene's commitment to understanding local healthcare realities and tailoring interventions to meet specific needs. By engaging with local communities and healthcare workers, the ministry aims to develop targeted solutions to address healthcare challenges in the Agadez region.
Key points
- Niger's Health Minister, Garba Hakimi, emphasizes the importance of local healthcare facilities and encourages the population to utilize them regularly.
