Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has conducted a two-day capacity-strengthening training for 200 staff, community engagers and volunteers of ASATTAHIR International Foundation (AIF) on Noma prevention, early detection and referral.
The training, held from 22–23 September 2026 in Sokoto state, brought together AIF staff, community engagers and volunteers from Sokoto North, Sokoto South and Wamakko LGAs. The activity was facilitated by the Health Promotion Unit of MSF.
In her welcoming remarks, Florencia Maghanga, the Medical Team Lead (MTL) of MSF Sokoto commended AIF for supporting the identification and referral of suspected Noma cases to the Noma Children Hospital, Sokoto.
She highlighted the serious risks associated with delayed detection and referral, emphasizing that early identification and timely referral are critical. She further stressed that prevention remains the best approach, underscoring the importance of community awareness, early recognition and prompt referral.
The training equipped participants with practical knowledge to recognize potential Noma cases, promote preventive practices and facilitate timely referral to appropriate health facilities.
Speaking on behalf of AIF, Rufus Yagkong, Head of Programs and Research, thanked MSF for the training and its support in strengthening the capacity of AIF’s frontline personnel.
He said the knowledge gained would strengthen the ability of AIF staff, community engagers and volunteers to contribute more effectively to Noma prevention, early detection and referral.
He added that AIF will integrate Noma prevention and awareness activities into its ongoing programmes across Sokoto state, leveraging its community structures and field presence to promote awareness, encourage early detection and support timely referral.
This partnership shows AIF’s openness to strategic partnerships and collaboration with relevant organizations and stakeholders to strengthen its humanitarian and development interventions and improve outcomes for vulnerable communities.