Hundreds of residents, healthcare professionals, development partners, and beneficiaries today joined the Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA) in a symbolic Red Rally Against Sickle Cell Disease held at Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital (Nassarawa Hospital), Kano, as part of activities marking World Sickle Cell Day 2026.
Held under the theme, “AbbaCare: Closing the Survival Gap, Ensuring Equity in Sickle Cell Care,” the event aimed to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), promote early diagnosis and prevention, and demonstrate solidarity with individuals and families affected by the condition.
Addressing participants, the Executive Secretary of KSCHMA, Dr. Rahila Aliyu Muktar, described the rally as a reflection of the Kano State Government’s commitment to improving the lives of persons living with Sickle Cell Disease through accessible and equitable healthcare.
She noted that the fight against Sickle Cell Disease extends beyond treatment, requiring sustained public awareness, community support, genotype testing, and collective action from all stakeholders.
“Today’s rally is a powerful reminder that every person living with Sickle Cell Disease deserves the opportunity to live a healthy and productive life. Through AbbaCare, the Kano State Government is helping to remove financial barriers to healthcare and ensuring that vulnerable residents receive the care they need,” she said.
Dr Rahila disclosed that over 30,000 persons living with Sickle Cell Disease are currently benefiting from healthcare coverage under the AbbaCare Initiative, describing the programme as one of the most impactful social health protection interventions in the State.
She urged young people and intending couples to embrace genotype testing and genetic counselling as important preventive measures, while encouraging affected individuals to seek regular medical care and adhere to prescribed treatment plans.
The Executive Secretary also commended healthcare workers, caregivers, patient support groups, and development partners for their contributions towards improving health outcomes for persons living with the condition.
The rally featured awareness activities and public sensitisation messages aimed at promoting greater understanding of Sickle Cell Disease, encouraging early health-seeking behaviour, and reducing stigma associated with the condition.
KSCHMA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening interventions that improve access to quality healthcare and support the well-being of vulnerable populations across Kano State.
KSCHMA Cares: One Voice, One Health, One Future.
Signed
Aminu Ahmad Turaki, ANIPR
Public Relations Officer
Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA)
