Actress Rechael Okonkwo, known as Nkoli Nwa Nsukka, has offered free healthcare services to over 5,000 people in Nsukka, Enugu State. This was part of the eighth edition of her annual Nkoli Mega Carnival.
The medical outreach was done in partnership with the Franklin Junior Foundation. It brought together doctors, nurses, lab workers, and other health experts to help residents with various health issues.
People received free medical check-ups, medicines, wheelchairs, walking aids, and reading glasses. Those needing special treatment were sent to hospitals for more care.
David Ofogba, the Director of Programmes at the Franklin Junior Foundation, spoke about the initiative. He said the partnership aimed to make basic healthcare available to residents who might not be able to afford it.
Ofogba mentioned that the medical team has treated over 5,000 patients since the outreach started on Friday. One beneficiary expressed gratitude for the free medication. Another woman, who suffered from severe knee pain, shared that she found relief after getting treatment and a walking aid.
Supporting the Community
The carnival also focused on helping vulnerable members of the community. About 500 widows received food items and other relief supplies. These included rice, tomato paste, noodles, wrappers, children's clothing, school bags, and writing materials.
Children were also a big part of the event. An educational quiz was organized for them, and bicycles were given to encourage them to take their education seriously.
Rechael Okonkwo said the carnival is more than just an entertainment event. It represents her commitment to giving back to the community. She pointed out that her desire to help those in need stems from her own childhood. She lost her father at 13 and grew up without much money or influential connections.
This eighth edition of the carnival was especially important as it returned after a two-year break. The last event took place in 2023. Okonkwo explained that rising costs made it hard for her to keep the event on its usual Easter Sunday date.
Looking at the larger purpose of the carnival, Okonkwo said people are called to make an impact in various ways. She believes that giving back does not always have to follow a specific pattern.
"People are called in different ways, and there are different ways of touching lives," she said. She encouraged everyone to find ways to make a positive change in their communities.
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