The Centre for Social Awareness, Advocacy, and Ethics (CSAAE), a Non-Governmental Civil Organization, celebrated its 10th anniversary over the weekend and decried the government’s total neglect of rural communities in the South East.
Speaking at the ceremony held at Full Moon Hotel, Owerri, the Founder and Executive Director, Rev. Fr. Godswill Agbagwa, revealed that based on their findings, the government of the day has significantly neglected rural communities.
The Catholic priest of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese attributed the absence of social amenities in rural communities—such as primary healthcare services, primary education, accessible roads, and clean water—as a critical concern.
Fr. Agbagwa lamented that during CSAAE’s recent visit to about 800 primary healthcare centers in the South East, none met even 20% of the requirements set by the Health Care Board.
He further disclosed that when the CSAAE assessed around 1,800 primary public schools in the South East, fewer than 20 had access to clean water.
Disturbed by these findings, Rev. Fr. Agbagwa vowed that in the next 10 years, his organization would focus more and invest heavily in the development of rural communities across the country.
While assuring that CSAAE is open to collaboration with the government to build a better society, Agbagwa emphasized their readiness to partner with organizations and agencies to improve primary healthcare services in rural communities.
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He said: “We want to work with individuals, organizations, and the government to improve primary healthcare services and step up primary health education in rural communities.”
He added: “Over the next 10 years, my organization will be investing significantly in upgrading and transforming rural communities. We are considering initiatives like smart primary schools and improved healthcare services.”
Rev. Fr. Agbagwa further stated that the CSAAE is planning to ensure the availability of medical doctors and the deployment of the best teachers to rural areas as part of its long-term goals.
Reflecting on the CSAAE’s journey, Rev. Fr. Agbagwa noted that 10 years ago, he had a dream to empower young people with the necessary resources, skills, and ethical values to become agents of change, capable of transforming and building a better society.
To achieve this dream, he launched the CSAAE, which over the past decade has realized its vision through various programs and initiatives.
Fr. Agbagwa disclosed that the organization began with the launch of the Network of Effective African Leaders (NEAL), aimed at identifying young individuals and equipping them with the resources, skills, and ethical values needed to succeed and contribute positively to society.
He further revealed that through its focus on primary healthcare services and primary health education, the CSAAE has empowered 195 individuals, providing them with adequate resources and ethical skills to effect meaningful change.
In her welcome address, the Chief Operating Officer (COO), Francis Okwuonu, described the event as the final installment of the anniversary celebrations, which initially began in the United States.
She noted that the second phase of the celebrations was held in Lagos, culminating in the event in Owerri.
Okwuonu expressed joy at the success of the CSAAE’s journey so far and extended her gratitude to everyone who came to celebrate and identify with the organization.
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