01/08/2026
Sometimes, lasting change begins with one simple question.
“Are you leaking?”
That question became the Golden Question at the Stakeholder Engagement Meeting on Strengthening Obstetric Fistula Referral Pathways in Niger State, convened by RAiSE Foundation.
The meeting brought together representatives from health facilities, government, healthcare professionals, community actors and development partners to answer one important question:
How do we ensure that every woman living with obstetric fistula is identified early, referred promptly and receives the care she deserves?
Together, stakeholders mapped the ideal referral journey—from identification in the community to surgery and rehabilitation—and proposed practical solutions, including stronger community awareness, referral focal persons, improved transportation, greater involvement of CHIPS agents, men and the media, and bringing services closer to women through mobile surgical outreaches in identified hotspots.
A memorable highlight of the meeting was the investiture of participants as Obstetric Fistula Referral Champions, recognising their commitment to lead efforts in early identification, timely referral, community awareness and coordinated care within their respective facilities and communities.
This was more than a meeting. It was the beginning of a stronger, more coordinated referral system that ensures no woman is left to suffer in silence because she did not know where to turn for help.
Together, we are strengthening referral pathways, restoring dignity and ensuring that no woman is left behind.
Fistula Foundation