Emma Elekwa
A group, Awka Union USA/Canada is currently offering free medical and optical services to residents across five zones in Awka, Anambra State in its 2026 International Medical Mission.
The 6-day outreach, which began with orientation on Sunday, May 10, is scheduled to run daily from 9am to 3pm until Friday, May 15.
The mission, holding at Umuzocha Village Hall, is providing free screening, diagnosis, treatment, eye examinations, eye drops and vision glasses to beneficiaries.
Speaking at the opening, President General of Awka Union USA/Canada, Dr. Anthony Nwobum said the initiative was designed to give back to the community and improve healthcare access for indigenes and Awka residents.
According to him, the outreach is one of the Union’s social programs aimed at alleviating poverty and improving healthcare delivery to the people.
“The annual medical mission remains a core part of the group’s commitment to community development and poverty alleviation through healthcare,” he said.
Expressing joy that the Union has sustained the program since 2017 with significant success, Nwobum revealed that the current edition covered general medical care, with optical services added in response to community demand.
He added, “The mission treats a range of conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, malaria, arthritis, and pain, and also distributes vision glasses.
“It involves medical practitioners from various fields, including general medicine doctors, pharmacists, optometrists, and nurses.
Outreached zone across Awka
“It is zoned across Awka to ensure wider access. Monday’s flag-off at Umuzocha Hall covered the Amenyi zone.”
Chairperson of the Outreach Committee, Mrs. Gloria Adigwe, who has been with the mission since its inception said the biggest measure of success has been the impact on beneficiaries.
She noted that the joy on people’s faces after receiving free medical treatment reflects the program’s achievements.
“Treatment ranges from general medicine to optical services which was introduced this year due to consistent demand since the project began.
“The mission prioritizes medical literacy alongside treatment. The team conducts health education and supports beneficiaries with medical management to help them handle their health conditions,” she added.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Veronica Ezeugo commended the organizers for the structure and reach of the outreach, expressing gratitude to the team for “thinking home.”
