On World Diabetes Day, Medical Aid and Advocacy for the Vulnerables Foundation carried out a comprehensive free medical outreach in Bolorunduro, Ondo East Local Government Area of Ondo State, reaching residents of Bolorunduro, Owena, Kajola and surrounding villages. The outreach was designed to address the growing burden of diabetes in underserved rural communities while also responding to broader healthcare and educational gaps identified during previous engagements.
Early in the day, community members began arriving at the Bolorunduro Civic Centre following radio announcements that had been aired ahead of the programme. For many residents, this outreach was a rare opportunity to access quality medical care without financial barriers. Rural communities in this region often face limited access to health facilities, shortages of health workers and an absence of essential medical supplies, making routine health checks and long term disease management difficult.
The outreach was led by Dr. Modesire Akinbogun and the MAAVF medical team, in collaboration with the Federal University of Technology Akure Medical Students’ Association. The programme focused primarily on diabetes awareness and early detection, but also provided general medical consultations and health education. Participants were screened for blood sugar levels and other basic health indicators, after which they received one on one consultations with medical professionals.
Medications and consumables were provided free of charge to all participants who required them. Individuals with abnormal or critically elevated blood sugar levels were referred appropriately, and structured follow up plans were established. In line with MAAVF’s commitment to continuity of care, selected patients with significantly high blood sugar levels were enrolled for extended support. This included coverage of medications, laboratory tests and ongoing monitoring for a minimum of six months to reduce the risk of complications and improve long term outcomes.
The outreach also placed strong emphasis on health education. Community members received practical information on diabetes prevention, early warning signs and lifestyle modifications that can reduce risk. These conversations were particularly important given that many individuals living with high blood sugar levels are unaware of their condition until complications arise.
Beyond healthcare delivery, the programme intentionally incorporated secondary school students from schools across Ondo East Local Government Area. The students were invited as both beneficiaries and future advocates. Through interactive sessions, they were educated on the causes, symptoms, prevention and management of diabetes. They were encouraged to share this knowledge with their families and community members, especially elderly relatives who may be at higher risk.
The students also participated in motivational academic talks led by members of the medical team and supported by the Area Education Officer of Ondo East Local Government Area. These sessions addressed common barriers to education within the communities, including low registration rates for national examinations and high dropout levels. The goal was to challenge limiting beliefs and inspire students to pursue higher education and long term career aspirations regardless of their background.
To reinforce learning and engagement, a quiz competition was organized, and an essay competition on diabetes awareness was announced. The competition was designed to deepen understanding while also rewarding excellence, with cash prizes for top entries.
The choice of Bolorunduro Civic Centre as the outreach location was strategic. Its central position allowed residents from multiple surrounding villages to participate, increasing the reach and impact of the programme. Compared to previous outreaches, this year’s event recorded a significantly higher turnout, with hundreds of participants receiving care and education.
The outreach was supported by donors and partners who share MAAVF’s vision of equitable healthcare access, including Prof. Tolulope Akinbogun and Dr. Mrs. Olubukola Akinbogun. Community leaders and government representatives were present and expressed strong support for the initiative, acknowledging its impact on populations that often remain outside the reach of conventional healthcare services.
This World Diabetes Day outreach reaffirmed MAAVF’s commitment to combining medical care, education and follow up support to create sustainable health outcomes. The foundation continues to work toward a future where preventable diseases are detected early and quality healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of location or economic status.