Despite ongoing effects by the Government and relevant stakeholders at reducing childhood malnutrition status, the persistent burden of malnutrition among women and children threatens the health and future development of the Country.

 This was contained in the address by the Oyo State Commissioner of Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, at the Oyo State Primary Health Care Level Maternal and Young Child Nutrition (MYCN) training sponsored by the World Bank and the Accelerating Nutrition Result in Nigeria (ANRIN) at the Kakanfo Inn, Ring Road, Ibadan on December 10, 2024.

 The training is expected to hold between December 8 and December 17, 2024. While speaking on the first day of the seven-day training of health workers which comprised of nurses, community health extension workers (CHEW), community health officers (CHO) and midwives, Dr Ajetunmobi explained the importance of the training for primary health workers from the grassroots level of the local government.

 According to her, “Many mothers and caregivers do not have adequate knowledge of appropriate feeding practices and those that have the knowledge, often do not imbibe the required attitude and practice irrespective of the acquired knowledge.

 “As part of the efforts to implement the 64th NCH Resolution, The Nutrition Department of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with key stakeholders conducted five batches of National ToT between August 2023 and March 2024.

 ‘’253 National Master Trainers were trained across the nation on the MIYCN course from the 36 states and FCT. “2,200 master trainers (60 per state) were also trained at the State level including 81 master trainers in Oyo State alone.

 “Health workers are expected to provide accurate information to households, mothers and other caregivers on optimal maternal, infant and young child nutrition, ensuring that families are supported and well-informed to provide optimal maternal infant and young child nutrition practices.”

 She explained further that to perform this role effectively, the capacity of health workers must be adequately built.

 In her own remarks, the director of Nutrition and the Primary Health Care Board and the project coordinator of the Accelerating Nutrition Result in Nigeria (ARIN), Dr Khadijat Alarape explained that the programme is an initiative of the Federal Ministry Of Health in collaboration with the World Bank.

 She said, “The purpose of this training is to reduce malnutrition as we deal with pregnant women and children. This is the last level whereby health workers working at the grassroots at the ANC clinics, the paediatric clinics are invited.

 “We are building the capacity of the relevant health workers providing their services at the primary health care level. When these capacities are built, they will be able to pass the right message.”

… As Gov. Makinde Commits N30 Million to Support Mass Deworming Campaign in the state

… As Oyo State Partners with Development Partners to Combat Neglected Tropical Diseases

Oyo State Government has disclosed that over 5 million residents would benefit from the 2024 mass deworming campaign and mass administration of medicines against river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in the State.

The commissioner for health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Adetumobi who disclosed this at a press conference to flag off the exercise, urged communities and residents to fully participate in the free health exercise which would be safely administered from house to house.

Dr Ajetumobi also explained that the free deworming exercise has been scheduled to end on the 30th November 2024, as over 700 trained health workers along with over 16,000 dedicated volunteers have been mobilized to administer the various medications and create public awareness to improve the overall health of the people.

She said that “In light of these pressing health issues, I urge everyone in our communities to participate actively in the ongoing free deworming campaign scheduled from November 21 to November 30, 2024.

“We have mobilized over 700 trained health workers along with more than 16,000 dedicated volunteers who will be actively participating in this year’s free deworming campaign targeting 5,243,979 at risk individuals aged 5 years and above across 31 local government areas in our State to safely administer these medicines from house-to house.

“Their commitment and hard work are vital as they will be responsible for administering medications and educating the public about these diseases.

“This extensive campaign is crucial for reducing the prevalence of these diseases and Improving the overall health of our communities.

” It is crucial for all eligible individuals- especially children aged 5 years and above to take these tablets as they play a vital role in controlling these diseases.

“The administration of these medications not only protects Individual health but also contributes significantly to community-wide efforts aimed at eliminating these diseases altogether.

“In alignment with the SDG’s Living No One Behind”, every eligible person shall be treated. No one should be discriminated against as a due to socioeconomic status, religion, ethnicity, sex, political affiliation or disability status in the course of this campaign.

“I encourage parents and guardians to ensure their children receive these treatments during the campaign period.

“Health workers will be available at designated centers throughout our communities to provide information and distribute medications safely.

“Let me, on behalf of the Oyo State Government express my heartfelt gratitude to several key partners who have made this Initiative possible: International donor partners, especially the Mectizan Donation Program and GlaxoSmithKline, for their generous provision of essential medicines for treating onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis, respectively.

“The World Health Organization (WHO), whose guidance and support have been Invaluable in securing the medicines.

“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, which has provided critical resources and oversight to ensure that we meet our public health goals.

“The ChristoffelBlinden Mission International (CBM), which has offered both financial assistance and technical expertise throughout this process at this critical time of need supporting mass deworming and free hydrocele surgeries in the State.

“To my colleagues, LGA chairmen, traditional leaders and the good people of Oyo State who have committed to eliminating these diseases in our State, I appreciate your support.

“I would like to express profound appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for his exemplary leadership and for providing a conducive environment for partners to operate effectively.

“The collaborative efforts of these critical stakeholders exemplify a shared commitment to improving health outcomes in our State

“As a responsible Government, the Oyo State Ministry of Health will continue to provide the enabling environment and infrastructure to ensure smooth collaboration with supporting partners.

‘Together, we can make significant strides toward eliminating river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in Oyo State.

“Together, we can make a significant impact towards the elimination of river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in our region.

“Your participation in this deworming initiative is essential for safeguarding our health and improving our quality of life.

‘Let us work together towards a healthier future free from these debilitating diseases.

While acknowledging that Governor Seyi Makinde has provided about 30 million naira as counterpart funding with support from development partners in ensuring the success of the exercise, the commissioner for health expressed commitment to end most of the diseases identified as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) by 2030.

In their goodwill messages, some of the development partners and representative from the Federal Government pledged their resolve to continue to work with the Oyo State Government in reduces the rate of NTDs in the State as well as its negative impact to the society.

The Oyo State Rapid Response Team (RRT) has confirmed four deaths, linked to a suspected Lassa fever outbreak in Saki West local government area of the State.

The fatalities consisted of three males and one 32-year-old female who was preparing for her marriage.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi had earlier tasked the Oyo State Rapid Response Team to Saki, following numerous calls from Saki West Local Government reporting an outbreak that has led to a number of deaths.

The team, consisting of the Director of Public Health, the State Epidemiologist, State Disease Notification Officer (DSNO), State Laboratory Focal Persons, representatives from WHO and Red Cross, as well as the PHC Coordinator of Saki West and the LGA DSNO, embarked on a comprehensive investigation to the scene of the incidence.

Background information gathered that one of the apprentices at the hospital, who had returned from Iwajowa and fell ill about two weeks before the incident, was suspected to have introduced the infection.

She likely transmitted it to her co-workers and the hospital owner.

Three of the deceased exhibited typical symptoms of Lassa fever, including craniofacial bleeding, while the hospital owner showed fatigue and self-medicated with antimalarials and antibiotics. His condition only prompted hospital admission when his self-treatment failed.

Extensive contact tracing was conducted, with particular focus on high-risk contacts who had been involved in the bathing and burial of the deceased.

The hospital where all the deceased were associated was closed down for decontamination.

The hospital that admitted the deceased health facility owner, without being informed of the deaths from an ‘unknown’ illness, was also shut down for decontamination, and the doctor was placed under surveillance.

Public awareness campaigns were held to educate the community about Lassa fever, its transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures.

The RRT provided on-the-job training to health workers in the affected areas to reinforce Infection Prevention Control protocols and prevent further spread of the disease.

Sample collection was also carried out on a person exhibiting symptoms, pending laboratory confirmation. The line listing of contacts is still in progress, focusing on individuals at high risk.

Advocacy visits were also conducted to the palace of the Okere of Saki, who was represented by his second-in-command, and was briefed on the outbreak and the necessary containment measures.

Local government authorities within Saki West were equally informed and aligned with the efforts to manage the situation.

Investigation also revealed that the outbreak initially involved Saki West LGA but has now extended to Iwajowa and Kajola LGAs while the DSNOs in the respective LGAs have been instructed to begin preliminary containment efforts while awaiting the full deployment of the State RRT.

Oyo State Government is set to screen Three Hundred and Forty-seven thousand, three hundred and four (347, 304) individuals as ‘Project 10 million Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers’ commences in Ibadan.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi stated this at the unveiling of the Project 10 Million with the members of the State Executive Cabinet at the office of the Governor.

According to the Commissioner, the Project 10 Million is a nationwide screening initiative, aimed at screening 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes across the 36 States of Nigeria and the FCT within a 7 days period in October, 2024.

Dr. Ajetumobi explained that the objective of the project is to screen 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes, promoting early detection, prevention, and control of cardiometabolic diseases, using the slogan – “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers”

She added that “knowing your vital health metrics empowers you to take timely actions and make the right decision concerning your health, while controlling them prevents complications that may arise from ignorance or neglect”.

The Commissioner added that the screening will include blood pressure and blood sugar tests to detect hypertension and diabetes, alongside other anthropometric measurements that pertain to the health of the heart, blood vessels and general body metabolism processes.

She stressed that the screening process is safe and uses standard, point-of-care testing.

“The Nigerian Health Commissioner’s Forum is initiating the project and executing in partnership with professional bodies, developmental agencies, and Donors. Project 10 Million will utilize a team of trained healthcare workers who will visit various communities within each State.

They will set up temporary screening stations at designated locations, making the screening accessible to the community”, she said.

The Commissioner concluded that everyone aged 18 years and above are eligible for the screening and the screening is absolutely free.

“This means that you do not have to make any payment for the registration as well as other services accessed during the screening exercise”.

Dr. Ajetumobi said participants will receive their test results and counseling on the spot.

People who have abnormal results will receive some first contact care or be referred to nearby Government-owned health facilities for further evaluation, treatment and follow-up care, she said.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

… As initiative aims to reduce childhood blindness

Stakeholders have urged parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s eye health, preventing trauma and distance vision impairment.

The call was in commemoration of World Sight Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of October. This year’s theme, “Love Your Eyes Kids,” highlights the need for awareness and action.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaseremi Ajetunmobi, represented by Dr. Babalola Johnson, emphasized the public’s role in preventing vision impairment through proper eye care

She explained the Common causes of visual impairment in children include uncorrected refractive errors, corneal diseases, and retina disorders.

Dr. Ajetunmobi stressed the importance of stakeholders supporting prevention and reduction of blindness in the State Chairman of the Oyo State Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, Dr. Yinka Ologunsua, noted that parents often punish children for poor performance without addressing underlying eye issues.

She stated that “The day is significant as it conveys the message of commitment to taking action for global eye health care which is an integral part of universal health coverage and ensuring we meet the SDGs target.

“This commemoration is an opportunity to create awareness on importance of eye sight for all especially the vulnerable children with poor eye sight which lead to poor performance in school and dropout.

“The present administration has made health one of its major pillars and ensured that the citizens have access to quality and affordable health care services particularly through Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) which is present in all the 33 local Government areas of the State.

“Eye sight care is an essential component of service for which OYSHIA provides care.

“The prevalence of distance vision impairment in low- and middle-income region to which Nigeria belongs is estimated to be four times higher than in high income region.

“The most common causes of visual impairment in children worldwide were uncorrected refractive error followed by amblyopia, corneal diseases and retina disorder. Therefore, attention need to be paid to eye health in children.

“It is therefore important for stakeholders in child rearing to support the move towards preventing and reducing the burden of blindness in the State.

“This year’s commemoration activities involve awareness, debate and screening for secondary school children.

“Thereby restoring hope to all with eye challenges among our children. This will improve their academic performance and productiveness, said.

Dr. Ologunsua advised parents to Examine newborns and monitor eye health, encourage children to wear corrective Lense, limit screen time and promote a healthy diet.

“This huge base of the population pyramid has longer “vision years” hence requires full attention from all stakeholders, themselves, parents, teachers, health workers and Government at all levels.

“Childhood blindness is one of the leading causes of blindness. Prevalence of childhood blindness rages from 3 per 10000 to 10 per 10000 in high income to low income countries respectively.

“Of note is the fact that refractive errors which can be corrected accounts for the leading cause of childhood blindness.

“Several parents have unjustifiably, and with the highest level of ignorance punished their children for poor performance at school, sitting close to the television or holding books close to their eyes to read – all these are symptoms of refractive errors! To make matters worse, they also refuse their children wearing corrective lenses!

Earlier in her welcome address, Director of Food, Water Laboratory Sciences, Mrs. Afusat Akande, emphasized the importance of educating children on healthy eating habits from a young age and balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is crucial for maintaining good eye health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one person becomes blind every minute, and one child becomes blind every five minutes. Nearly one in 1000 children are blind globally.

The event was organized by the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria, Nigeria Ophthalmic Nurse, Nigeria Optometrists Association, Lion Club, and Rotary International Club.

In a recent address, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, articulated the pressing issue of viral hepatitis in Nigeria, describing it as a silent health crisis that starkly contrasts with the visible progress made in combating HIV.

She emphasized that, while efforts to reduce HIV prevalence have received significant attention, viral hepatitis poses a critical threat, affecting one in every twelve Nigerians through either Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C.

Dr. Ajetunmobi acknowledged the Oyo State Government’s proactive measures under the visionary leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde. She noted that the administration has launched a series of targeted initiatives aimed at addressing this urgent health challenge.

She pointed out that comprehensive programs have been implemented, including the vaccination of all infants against Hepatitis B and the screening of pregnant women for the virus. She stressed that these foundational steps are crucial for protecting future generations and ensuring maternal health.

The Commissioner highlighted a particularly noteworthy intervention focusing on Hepatitis C, which disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations such as people who inject drugs and prisoners. She explained that the Oyo State Government recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Society for Family Health to launch the HCV Combination Prevention in PWID and Prisoners Project (HEPC3P). Dr. Ajetunmobi described this project as a significant advancement in the fight against viral hepatitis, stating that it builds on the existing health framework established under Engr. Makinde’s leadership.

She expressed pride in the HEPC3P Project, noting that it is groundbreaking and being implemented in only five countries worldwide, with Nigeria among them. Oyo State, alongside Gombe, is one of the only two States in Nigeria with an established Hepatitis C program. The Commissioner conveyed her optimism that this project would introduce innovative tools and strategies, significantly enhancing access to prevention and treatment for the most affected populations.
She said,

“The HEPC3P Project is groundbreaking, as it is being implemented in only five countries globally, with Nigeria being one of them. Oyo State, along with Gombe, is one of the only two States in Nigeria with an established Hepatitis C program. This project will introduce innovative tools and strategies, significantly enhancing access to prevention and treatment for the most affected populations”

Dr. Ajetunmobi attributed these achievements to the unwavering commitment of Engr. Seyi Makinde to public health and the coordinating ability of the Ministry of Health. She affirmed that their collaborative leadership not only addresses the immediate needs of those affected by viral hepatitis but also sets a precedent for future health initiatives across Nigeria.

She reiterated that through these combined efforts, Oyo State is paving the way for a healthier future. She asserted that with the right focus and resources, it is possible to tackle even the most daunting health crises. The Commissioner’s words served as a reminder of the transformative power of proactive healthcare, inspiring hope and a collective commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by viral hepatitis.

Under the visionary leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde, Oyo State has navigated the complexities of HIV service delivery to emerge as one of Nigeria’s top five States in HIV sustainability.

This remarkable achievement reflects not only the administration’s commitment to public health but also its ability to turn challenges into opportunities.

Central to this transformation was the appointment of Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi as the Honourable Commissioner for Health. Her expertise and dedication have been instrumental in implementing the State’s health policies, which muscularly hinged on Omituntun 2.0, epitomizing the principle of putting a “round peg in a round hole.”
Dr. Ajetunmobi’s approach to leadership has fostered a collaborative environment where innovative solutions could thrive.

Oyo State boasts a remarkably low HIV prevalence rate of just 0.9%, making it one of the least affected States in Nigeria and the second lowest in the southwestern region.

However, this success was hard-won. The administration faced significant challenges, including stigma, inadequate access to healthcare, and the need for improved funding and resources. Rather than seeing these hurdles as insurmountable, Engr. Makinde’s Government viewed them as catalysts for change.

Under Dr. Ajetunmobi’s guidance, the State launched a comprehensive strategy to enhance HIV services. This initiative included the integration of HIV prevention and treatment within mainstream healthcare, ensuring that those in need could access care without stigma. With over 42 treatment centers and more than 1,600 service delivery points established, the Government significantly improved access to vital services.

Recognizing the financial barriers faced by many, especially the indigent population living with HIV, the administration has initiated a nearly finalized free enrollment program for health insurance for some people living with HIV. This innovative step aims to ensure that even the most vulnerable individuals can receive the care they need without the burden of cost. The commitment to inclusivity underscores Engr. Makinde’s belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.

To further bolster community engagement, the Government implemented awareness campaigns that emphasized the importance of HIV testing and treatment. By promoting openness and reducing stigma, Oyo State has fostered a supportive environment that encourages individuals to seek help. This cultural shift has been vital in increasing testing rates and connecting more people to care.

The culmination of these efforts has garnered recognition for Oyo State, which was recently honored as one of the five States most prepared to own and sustain an HIV program in Nigeria.

This accolade reflects the tireless work of Engr. Seyi Makinde and Dr. Ajetunmobi, whose collaborative efforts have paved the way for a healthier future for the people of Oyo State.

Through effective leadership, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to public health, the Makinde administration has not only transformed HIV services but also set a benchmark for other States to follow. The journey is far from over, but with a foundation built on resilience and innovation, the future looks promising for those living with HIV in Oyo State. Engr. Seyi Makinde’s visionary governance continues to inspire hope and drive positive change, proving that challenges can indeed be transformed into triumphs.

The Oyo State Primary Health Care Board (OYSPHCB) has begun recruitment exercise with a two-day Computer-Based examination for candidates who applied for various positions.

While monitoring the exercise at the University of Ibadan Distant Learning Center, Ajibode, Ibadan, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi explained that the ongoing recruitment exercise is significant as it will help to bridge the human resource gap that the primary  health sector is facing.

The Commissioner explained that 16,000 applicants put in for the exercise, adding  that Governor Seyi Makinde approved 30% of the recruitment for the first batch, while subsequent exercises will take care of the remaining batches.

According to her, the recruitment exercise will take care of the different categories of workers that are needed at the Primary Health Care Centers such as Community Health Extension Workers, Pharmacy Technicians, Community Health Workers, Medical Officers of Health, among others.

“Their recruitment will further promote quality healthcare delivery in Oyo State.

In his remarks, the Chairman, Oyo State House Committee on Health, Hon. Saminu Badamosi applauded Governor Seyi Makinde for approving the recruitment exercise, demonstrating his commitment and priority to the  health sector of the State.

The Executive Secretary, Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muyideen Babatunde Olatunji explained that the Minimum Service Package (MSP) Document which was prepared by the Board revealed a huge gap in the human resource aspect, which prompted the Governor to approve the recruitment exercise.

He maintained that the present administration has renovated about 264 PHCs across the State, which are fully equipped, hence “people to be employed now are the ones to work at the various Health Centres”.

He added that this will afford people access to qualitative healthcare delivery across the State.

Dr. Muyideen reiterated that the candidates writing the examination now are those who applied since 2021 and the CBT exam, which will last for 2 days, is the first step, after which it will be followed by an oral interview.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

In a significant move to eradicate tuberculosis and leprosy in the State, the Oyo State Government has donated motorcycles to all Tuberculosis and Leprosy Supervisory (TBLS) Officers across the State.

The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, while handing over the motorcycles to the officers on behalf of the State Government, emphasized that the motorcycle donation through the support of Global Fund is a significant step towards enhancing the mobility of the TBLS Officers. This will lead to improved active surveillance, rapid detection of diseases, enhanced case finding and management, and increased access to remote and hard-to-reach areas, thereby making their work more effective and impactful.

Dr. Ajetunmobi reiterated the Ministry of Health’s unwavering commitment to the Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program. The ultimate goal is to reduce tuberculosis in the State to a level where it no longer poses a public health problem in Oyo State and Nigeria at large. This donation is a clear demonstration of the Government’s determination to reach the grassroots level and eradicate these diseases.

The Commissioner, therefore, thanked the various health partners in the State for their efforts to complement the Government in the fight against tuberculosis and leprosy. She charged the TBLS officers to do their work with diligence and passion, adding that the Government is also striving to make their work easy by providing for their basic needs, part of which is motorcycle donations.

She said,

“I appreciate God for making today a reality, even though it has been in the pipeline for a long time. I want to also thank our partners for not waving the needs of our officers aside. This shows that the little we’re doing, they’re seeing it, and they appreciate us, which is the essence of making this to come. This will help us manoeuvre our way to the hard-to-reach areas where vehicles cannot get to.”

In his remark, the Chairman of the TBLS Officers in Oyo State, Prince Oyebamiji Akanbi, expressed his appreciation to the State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for making this possible. He added that this is the first time such a donation will be made to the officers to ease their work. He added that this would go a long way to improving their work, thereby reducing the number of tuberculosis cases in the State.

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has called for innovation and collaboration as a way of advancing community pharmacy practice worldwide.

This was stated at the opening of the 43rd annual conference of the Association, held on Tuesday at the International Conference Center, University of Ibadan, Oyo State. The event had esteemed guests and pharmacology’s crème de la crème in attendance, including Oyo State Governor Engineer Oluseyi Makinde, represented by his Deputy, Barrister Adebayo Lawal, and the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi.

In his keynote address, Governor Makinde highlighted the establishment of the Oyo State Drug Management Agency, aimed at ensuring efficient procurement, distribution, and management of pharmaceutical and medical supplies across the state. He emphasized the significance of this initiative in strengthening healthcare infrastructure and upholding quality care for all citizens.

The Governor encouraged ACPN members to embrace innovation and collaboration to address challenges in community pharmacy practice in Nigeria. He envisioned a future where every Nigerian has access to quality pharmaceutical care, with community pharmacists empowered to deliver exceptional service standards.

Furthermore, Governor Makinde urged ACPN to ensure free, fair, credible, and safe elections to enthrone God-fearing and progressive leaders who prioritize the well-being of Oyo State citizens.

In her address, the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye said that Community Pharmacists are the first point of call in Nigeria for primary healthcare needs, and this put them at the forefront serving as the bridge between the patients and the healthcare system.

Professor Adeyeye reiterated that the conference served as an avenue for Community Pharmacists, manufacturers, and other stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry to network and share knowledge and also chart a course for the future of their practice worldwide.

She said,

“This conference provides a key opportunity for us to exchange knowledge, chart a course for the future of community pharmacy practice worldwide and also collaborate”

She, therefore, charged Community Pharmacists to leverage the evolving technological development to further create quality and affordable healthcare for all.

The conference, Oluyole 2024, chaired by Pharmacist Grace Ikani, had Remi Adeseun, Global Director of Salient Advisory as the keynote speaker. The conference also pledged to be a transformative event in strengthening ties between community pharmacists and the State Government.