Every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive in good health. This week, South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO) joined hands with Caritas Nigeria, nine community-based organisations (CBOs), and the Enugu State Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (STBLCP) to make that vision a reality through Child TB Testing Week.
Bringing TB Screening Closer to the Community
Across 17 Local Government Areas of Enugu State, our teams reached schools, health centres, and community spaces to provide free tuberculosis (TB) screenings for children. The goal was to detect cases early, link affected children to treatment, and protect others through awareness and prevention.
This collaborative approach demonstrates what’s possible when communities, health workers, and development partners work side by side to make public health truly accessible.
Why Child TB Testing Matters
Tuberculosis remains one of the world’s most persistent public health challenges, yet it is both preventable and curable. Children are especially vulnerable because symptoms often go unnoticed. By prioritising early detection, we can prevent severe illness, reduce transmission, and give every child a TB-free future.
Through awareness sessions, school outreaches, and one-on-one counselling, SSDO and partners helped families understand that early action saves lives.
Progress is always stronger when it is shared. From January to now, our work has been shaped by resilience, creativity, and the collective power of your support.
In this edition, we invite you to journey with us through the highlights of 2025 as we recount the milestones we have reached, the communities we touched, and the change we are building together.
Thank you for being an essential part of this story.
Enugu State Youth Policy Launch
On August 21st, Enugu State took a bold step by launching the Youth Policy. The Enugu State Youth Policy is a roadmap to place young people at the center of governance, innovation, and development.
SSDO, with ActionAid Nigeria under the SPA II Project, supported the process from from stakeholder consultations to final adoption. The result is a policy shaped with young people, not just for them.
Youths Trained in Sack Farming across Enugu Communities
We trained over 320 young people across four Enugu communities in sack farming. Sack farming is a simple, climate-smart way to grow food with little land.
For eight days, participants learned hands-on techniques and left with seeds, seedlings, and tools to start their own farms. Beyond fighting hunger, sack farming is opening doors to income, innovation, and resilience for young people and their families.
Strengthening Health Systems through Data Quality Assessment
The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), National TB and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP), and partners, including SSDO conducted a TB/HIV Data Quality Assessment (DQA) in Enugu State.
The goal was to ensure accurate health records, which is crucial for life-saving decisions. The team reviewed records, identified gaps, and found progress but also areas for improvement.
Through our Jacobs Well project, women entrepreneurs received hands-on training in Money Management and Bookkeeping, equipping them with the skills to grow stronger businesses. This training prepared the ground for the disbursement of ₦10.8 Million in business support funds, ensuring beneficiaries are not just funded, but financially ready to thrive.
Young Nigerians Take a Stand: Bold Demands at the Constitutional Hearing
At the Senate’s Constitutional Amendment Hearing, youth mobilized through the SPA II Project, presented bold demands including – free education, diaspora voting, independent candidacy, youth & women quotas, and a national youth fund. Their message was clear: young people are not waiting for change, they are leading it. 👉 [Read more]
Japanese Government Expands Medical Waste Intervention Through New Incinerator Project
SSDO, in partnership with the Embassy of Japan in Nigeria, is implementing a transformative health infrastructure project to address hazardous waste disposal challenges in Enugu State. Through the Japanese Government’s Grassroots Human Security Project (GGP), funding has been secured for the installation of a state-of-the-art medical waste incinerator at Abakpa Health Centre. The facility is strategically located to serve both public and private healthcare institutions across Enugu East Local Government Area, representing a significant step forward in improving medical waste management and public health safety in the region. 👉 [Read more]
With new LGA Chairpersons sworn in this year, Enugu State took a big step toward grassroots democracy. But accountability begins with listening, especially to young people.
Through the SPA II Project, SSDO worked with youths across all 17 LGAs to co-create the Youth Demand Charter. The demand charter is a roadmap for jobs, healthcare, roads, digital access, climate action, and more.
In June 2025, the youths presented this Charter directly to LGA leaders, who pledged to align their four-year plans with these priorities and keep youth voices at the table.
Saving for Change: Young Farmers in Ihenyi and Aninri Building a Stronger Financial Future
In April 2024, SSDO helped set up Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) in Ihenyi (Isi Uzo LGA) and Aninri, Enugu State.
Just one year later, the results are inspiring: ✅ 100% loan repayment, with zero defaults ✅ ₦250,000 profits reinvested for growth ✅ Over ₦700,000 in loans disbursed ✅ 72% female membership, boosting gender inclusion
And here’s the most powerful finding: 92% of loans went straight to agriculture, proving that young people are using these funds to strengthen farms, families, and futures.
Fifty-one young people from across the 17 LGA’s in Enugu State came together, to draft a Youth Demand Charter for inclusive governance. The charter outlined their priorities including education, jobs, healthcare, and civic participation, and calls for greater youth involvement in decision-making.
With this charter, Enugu’s youth are charting a future that is inclusive, accountable, and driven by their aspirations.
To mark World TB Day 2025, SSDO partnered with nursing students from UNN to host the Ugboezeji Annual Health Day. Residents received free TB testing, health education, and practical tips for preventing infectious diseases, while students brought fresh energy and care to the community. 👉 [Read more]
Nsukwa WASH Project – Access to Clean Water: A Fundamental Human Right
SSDO brought hope to Nsukwa, Delta State, with the commissioning of a new 20,000-litre solar-powered borehole which now provides families with safe water, while trained hygiene promoters and WASH committees are helping the community build healthier habits and sustain the system.
Celebrated on World Water Day 2025, the project is a promise of better health and brighter futures for generations to come.
Enugu State Launch of Climate Policy and Climate Manual for Schools
Enugu State has taken a bold step for the planet with the launch of its Climate Policy and Action Plan and a new Climate Manual for Schools. The plan lays out a clear path to tackle climate change, while the manual equips young learners to grow into champions of sustainability.
SSDO, alongside other partners, was proud to contribute to this milestone. Together, we are helping build a greener, safer future. 👉 [Read more].
International Women’s Day 2025: Empowering Women and Girls at Affa-Amaozalla Community
To mark the IWD 2025, SSDO through its Sister Guardian Initiative (SGI) hosted an event at Affa-Amaozalla Community School to empower women and girls with knowledge of their legal rights and protections against gender-based violence.
Through sessions led by lawyers, TARMA-SARC, and local police, participants learned about the VAPP Act, how to identify GBV, and where to seek help. The event reinforced our commitment to building communities where women and girls can live free from violence and reach their full potential.
Launch of the Policy Paper on Addressing Polarization in Nigeria’s Civil Society Sector
SSDO, in partnership with Thoughts and Mace, launched the Policy Paper on Addressing Polarization in Nigeria’s Civil Society Sector. The event brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss how divisions driven by competition for funding, ideological differences, and generational gaps, undermine collective action.
The policy paper offers strategies for enhancing unity, including inclusive dialogues, equitable resource distribution, and stronger institutional capacity. By embracing collaboration, Nigeria’s civil society can become more cohesive and impactful in advancing democracy, human rights, and social progress.
Empowering the Next Generation: Celebrating Women and Girls in STEM
To mark the International day for Women and Girls in STEM, SSDO partnered with GIZ and the Enugu State Ministry of Science & Technology to inspire students at Queens School, Enugu. Under the theme “Her Science, Her Future,” girls explored coding, digital marketing, and design thinking through hands-on projects that sparked creativity and problem-solving.
By breaking barriers and showcasing role models, we’re nurturing the next generation of female innovators and ensuring that girls have the tools to lead in science and technology.
Kastina WASH Project – Access to Clean Water: A Fundamental Human Right
With support from Latter-day Saints Charities and in partnership with Kiskon Karatu Scholars Development, we commissioned the Kastina WASH Project, bringing solar-powered boreholes, hygiene training, and lasting hope to communities in Kankia and Bindawa LGAs.
From training local WASH committees and hygiene promoters to completing the Bindawa and Kankia boreholes, this project is already transforming lives, ensuring families have safe water and healthier futures.
Labour Protection in Civil Society Workspaces: A Working Report for the West African Region
In January, 2025, SSDO, in partnership with Ford Foundation, hosted the West African Regional Convening on Labour Protection in Civil Society Workspaces.
The event spotlighted a tough truth: civil society workers, who fight for others, often lack basic protections themselves.
Leaders and advocates called for fairer funding models, stronger labour laws, and safer workspaces, so dignity and security become the norm.
As part of the Global Week of Climate Action, South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO) joined voices with young people, community leaders, and local advocates to call for urgent climate action in Enugu.
With colourful placards and passionate voices, young people, women, and community leaders joined SSDO and partners on the streets of Enugu to demand stronger local and national action against the climate crisis.
Walking for the Planet, Speaking for Our Communities
Our team took to the streets to highlight the urgent need for stronger local and national responses to the climate crisis. The rally created space for voices that are often unheard who live the reality of environmental degradation every day.
The Human Face of the Climate Crisis
For communities across Nigeria, climate change is no longer an abstract conversation. It is the flood that sweeps through farmlands, the heat that scorches crops, and the unpredictable rains that threaten livelihoods. These are not distant problems; they are local realities that require urgent, people-centered solutions.
Our march was a reminder that addressing the climate crisis is not just about policy but about people. It is about protecting homes, securing food systems, and ensuring that the most vulnerable are not left behind.
From Awareness to Action: On Air and On the Ground
To deepen public engagement, SSDO also took the conversation to the airwaves. We went live on Solid FM 100.9, where our team shared stories, insights, and community-driven solutions for a greener, safer Enugu. The discussion amplified voices from the streets to homes across the state, reminding everyone that the fight against climate change belongs to all of us.
Our commitment goes beyond one week of global action. Through continued advocacy, education, and community mobilisation, SSDO remains steadfast in promoting inclusive climate governance that protects people and the planet.
Because when we stand together in the streets, in schools, and even on the airwaves, real change begins.
For many children, going to school should mean a safe space to learn, grow, and dream. Yet, across communities, inadequate sanitation remains one of the silent barriers to education. At South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), we believe transforming education begins with restoring dignity, starting with clean, functional toilets.
From Iva Valley to Nsukwa: Change in Action
At Community Secondary School, Iva Valley (Enugu State), we recently completed the rehabilitation of8 modern toilet stalls(including 2 for teachers, 3 for male students, and 3 for female students). This project, made possible through the generous support of a philanthropist alongside SSDO’s dedicated efforts, has turned a basic necessity into a source of pride. With access to clean, safe sanitation, students can now focus on what truly matters: learning and growing.
In Community Primary School, Nsukwa (Delta State), the transformation was even more dramatic. What began as two barely functional stalls has now become three fully rehabilitated, modern facilities, complete with a piped water connection to keep them clean and sustainable. This upgrade means that children no longer have to choose between education and health. They can attend school with dignity and confidence.
More Than Toilets: A Foundation for the Future
These projects are more than infrastructure improvements; they are investments in the health, dignity, and educational success of young people. Each rehabilitated facility is a step toward safer schools, healthier students, and stronger communities.
At SSDO, our sanitation transformation journey is just beginning. Together with our partners and supporters, we will continue to build a future where every child can learn in a safe, dignified, and supportive environment.
In May 2025, South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO) invited community members to submit powerful stories for the upcoming Cost of Justice Anthology and the response was nothing short of inspiring. Voices of resilience, justice, and change poured in, painting vivid pictures of lived experiences that deserve to be seen and heard.
Now, we are taking the next bold step: bringing these stories to life through art on canvas.
Paint-a-thon 2025 is Here!
We are calling on young creatives in Enugu State to transform these stories into striking visual expressions. This is your opportunity to let your art speak where words stop; to inspire, to challenge, and to reimagine justice through creativity.
How to Participate
Click the link or scan the QR code to view the creative prompt
Create an original 2-D artwork (excluding photography & digital graphics)
Submit your work through the provided link or code
🏆 Win a ₦300,000 cash prize at the Paint-a-thon 📖 Have your work featured in The Cost of Justice Anthology, alongside real community stories 🌍 Be part of a movement that merges storytelling and art for justice and change
Deadline for Submissions
📅 12th September, 2025
Eligibility
35 years or younger
Resident in Enugu State
This Paint-a-thon is a creative bridge between lived experiences and visual storytelling. Whether you shared your story earlier or you are picking up a brush for the first time, your voice matters. Your art can spark conversations, shift perspectives, and amplify the collective call for justice.
