Health Diplomacy on Bonny Island: A Case Study in Grassroots Impact

By Dr. Nissi Ikenna-Amadi (née Kalio), Member, Institut de Diplomatie Publique

In a world increasingly shaped by the intersection of policy and people, health diplomacy is

no longer the exclusive domain of state actors. On May 2, 2025, Bonny Island in Rivers State,

Nigeria, became the unlikely stage for a compelling example of citizen-led diplomacy—one that placed women’s health, dignity, and empowerment at its center.

Over 300 women and girls gathered at the Model Primary Health Center for a community- based health intervention organized by the African Women Mentoring and Inspiring Initiative (AWMII) under the theme Accelerated Action on Health. What unfolded was far more than a medical outreach; it was a tangible expression of non-state health diplomacy, where civil society stepped in to bridge systemic gaps and advocate for policy relevance through action.

As a member of the Institut de Diplomatie Publique, I proudly contextualize this outreach

within the broader framework of soft power and public good. Through inclusive

engagement, AWMII translated global health and gender equity goals into local, lived

experiences—bringing multilateral aspirations to the grassroots.

The intervention offered free malaria testing and treatment, cervical cancer screenings,

blood pressure checks, breast examinations, and financial advisory sessions. Girls received

sanitary pads and clothing; survivors of gender-based violence found both information and

solidarity.

In my opening remarks as Executive Director of AWMII, I reminded the women:

“Today affirms that your lives matter—not only to your families and communities, but to

the global movement for women’s health and dignity. This is your platform.”

Sessions led by public health advocate Miriam Atsukwei and legal voice Barrister Awo

Foster underscored the power of information. Atsukwei highlighted early detection as a

frontline defense against cervical cancer, while Foster issued a powerful call to action:

“Speaking up breaks the cycle of abuse. AWMII stands as a shield and a voice beside every

woman who dares to reclaim her safety.”

This effort was made possible through a strategic web of partnerships—with the Rivers

State Ministry of Health, Medical Women Association of Nigeria, ACOMIN, PACEM Ville,

RIVCHPP, the Ibuchi Sunday Elechi Foundation, and Union Bank Nigeria—each reinforcing

AWMII’s position as a trusted actor in community-level diplomacy.

Healthcare professionals at the site, including matron Mrs. Patricia Tobi, praised the

outreach:

“This is what it looks like when passion meets policy. AWMII has shifted the paradigm.”

The impact was deeply personal. One participant, Mrs. Musa Ibrahim, shared:

“I’ve never been screened for cancer until today. I leave here not just healthier, but stronger

in my spirit.”

The outreach also served as a platform for multi-sectoral dialogue, blending public health,

financial literacy, human rights, and institutional collaboration. It affirmed the role of civil

society in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in health (SDG

3), gender equality (SDG 5), and partnerships (SDG 17).

As an active member of the Institut de Diplomatie Publique, I view this as a model of

transformational diplomacy—where everyday people and institutions become architects of

peace, development, and justice. This approach not only elevates local lives but builds

international understanding through human-centered engagement.

AWMII remains open to partnerships with organizations, governments, and donors

committed to inclusive impact. Together, we can create a world where diplomacy begins

with dignity and healing starts with equity.

Join us. Health is a human right—and diplomacy starts at home.

Dr. Nissi Ikenna-Amadi (née Kalio)

Executive Director, AWMII

Member, Institut de Diplomatie Publique