Dear Neil,
This is a very important and timely reflection. At Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA), we have always emphasized why paediatricians in Africa must understand the deep and pervasive impacts of violence on children and youth. Violence—whether physical, emotional, or sexual—not only causes immediate harm, but also inflicts long-term damage on a child’s physical
and mental health, derailing their development and undermining progress in global health. Pediatricians are often first responders: they can identify signs of trauma, abuse, and neglect, and serve as critical gatekeepers for intervention and protection.
Moreover, paediatricians have a uniquely trusted relationship with families and communities. By integrating violence screening, trauma-informed care, and referral systems into their practice, they can actively contribute to violence mitigation. Their advocacy can help shape policies, boost awareness, and build partnerships with social services, child-protection agencies, and civil society. Given AHOA’s global civil-society network, our message highlights how health professionals can be powerful change agents not just at the bedside but also at the systems level. We urge paediatricians in Africa to exercise both moral and professional duties by recognizing the profound consequences of violence affecting children and youth, and using their clinical and social influence, to play a critical role in ending this silent epidemic.
Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje, FAHOA
CHIFA Profile:
Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje is a leading voice in health education, community health, and advocacy, with decades of experience advancing people-centered development across Africa and beyond. His approach to health education emphasizes participatory learning, knowledge transfer, and behavior change communication, ensuring that individuals and communities gain the skills and awareness to make informed decisions about their health. He develops and delivers innovative health promotion strategies tailored to local realities, particularly in resource-limited settings. In community health, Dr. Adirieje has championed integrated primary health care, preventive medicine, and grassroots health initiatives. Through Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA), which he leads, he connects civil society, community groups, and health institutions to strengthen healthcare delivery, tackle health inequities, and improve access to essential services for vulnerable populations. His work addresses infectious diseases, maternal and child health, nutrition, climate and health, environmental health, and emerging public health challenges. As a passionate advocate, Dr. Adirieje works with governments, NGOs, and international organizations to influence health policy, mobilize resources, and promote sustainable development goals (SDGs). He amplifies community voices, ensuring that health systems are inclusive, accountable, and responsive. His advocacy extends beyond health to governance, environment, and social justice, positioning him as a multidisciplinary leader shaping healthier and more equitable societies. afrepton AT gmail.com