SFH Nigeria Website 
Beyond Malaria Prevention: How SFH’s IMPACT Project Transformed the Life of a Lagos Island MAMa Agent
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by
By Uhuaba Chinonyerem and Femi Babatunde
Empowerment often springs from the most unexpected sources. For Mrs Adebayo Adebukonla Kafayat, a dedicated Mother Against Malaria agent (MAMa) within the Lagos State Malaria IMPACT Project, what began as routine participation in health training evolved into an extraordinary life-changing opportunity.
Employed and trained by the Society for Family Health (SFH) under the Malaria IMPACT Project, Mrs Kafayat, covering the IGA IDUGARAN WARD IN LAGOS ISLAND LGA, quickly earned a reputation in Lagos Island for her unwavering passion, discipline, and exceptional interpersonal communication skills. Through door-to-door visits and health education sessions, she tirelessly promoted awareness surrounding malaria prevention, testing, and treatment, helping families adopt healthier practices and enhancing community well-being.
A significant component of her regular training and review meetings with SFH involved reciting the Nigerian National Anthem, a simple yet impactful exercise aimed at fostering unity, confidence, and a sense of national pride among participants. For Mrs Kafayat, this soon became second nature; she recited the anthem fluently and with heartfelt conviction.
Then came an unexpected opportunity; while attending a public event, the organisers announced an impromptu challenge: anyone who could accurately recite the Nigerian National Anthem from start to finish would win a parcel of land. Many attendees hesitated, but Mrs Kafayat confidently stepped forward, calm and assured. Her consistent practice during SFH sessions paid off, as she delivered the anthem flawlessly, word for word.
To the astonishment of all, she emerged victorious, not with one, but two parcels of land: one in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, and the other in Owode, Ogun State.
For Mrs Kafayat, this achievement represented far more than land ownership; it stood as a symbol of confidence, empowerment, and the profound ripple effects stemming from capacity building.
In her words, “My name is Adebayo Kafayat Adebukonla, and I proudly represent the IGA Idunganran ward in Lagos Island LGA as a ‘Mother against malaria agent’ on the IMPACT programme.
Being a MAMA is not just a role; it is a significant honor that has empowered me to communicate effectively and express myself with confidence in various settings. On July 24, 2025, I had the distinct privilege of being awarded a full plot of land for reciting the new Nigerian National Anthem at the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA) Day event.
This event, graciously sponsored by the Lagos State Government, took place at the Blue Roof Event Center in Ikeja.I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Society for Family Health (SFH) for fostering the development of boldness and courage. Their encouragement to consistently recite the National Anthem during our meetings has been instrumental in my growth
I take great pride in my role as a MAMa, as it has opened opportunities for me, including becoming a landowner. My aspirations have expanded greatly, and I remain dedicated to my journey with SFH, believing firmly that anything is possible’’
Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that the Lagos State Malaria IMPACT Project, implemented by SFH, transcends the fight against malaria; it focuses on individual growth. Through consistent mentorship, skill development, and confidence-building exercises, women like Mrs Kafayat are empowered to become leaders, role models, and, in her case, proud landowners.
From advocating for malaria awareness to seizing a life-changing opportunity, Mrs Adebayo Adebukonla Kafayat exemplifies the spirit of transformation, demonstrating that when women are empowered, the impact extends far beyond health.
