Stephanie Okereke Linus Partners with George Washington University on Maternal Health Initiative in Africa
Nigerian actress and humanitarian Stephanie Okereke Linus has teamed up with George Washington University’s Institute for Corporate Responsibility to launch the Maternal Health and Nutrition Initiative Africa (MaHNIA). This innovative program seeks to address critical maternal health and nutrition issues in marginalized communities across Africa, aiming to empower women and improve health outcomes.
The partnership was unveiled during two special screenings of Linus’ award-winning film, Dry, which sheds light on the struggles of child brides and the devastating effects of obstetric fistula. The screenings were followed by a panel discussion hosted by GW’s Global Food Institute and Global Women’s Institute. The event highlighted the intersection of maternal health, women’s rights, and nutrition in building stronger healthcare systems in Africa.
Linus, who also founded the Extended Hands Foundation, shared her passion for the cause. “Maternal health and proper nutrition are not luxuries; they are essential rights,” she said. “Through MaHNIA, we aim to ensure that women in underserved communities not only survive childbirth but thrive in the long term. This initiative merges healthcare and nutrition to provide sustainable solutions.”
Tara Scully, Director of Curriculum Development at GW’s Global Food Institute, emphasized the connection between healthcare and nutrition, noting, “A mother’s nutritional status affects not only her well-being but also her child’s. By integrating nutrition education with healthcare, we can foster healthier futures for generations.”
The event also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing maternal health. John J. Forrer, Director of GW’s Institute for Corporate Responsibility, stated, “Collaborating with the private sector can vastly improve healthcare access. These partnerships ensure that maternal health services reach those who need them most.”
Other experts brought additional insights. Erin Mielke, USAID’s Senior Technical Adviser for Reproductive Health, highlighted the rising risks in low-resource settings, noting how unsafe practices contribute to the prevalence of obstetric fistula. “USAID addresses these challenges with a comprehensive approach, including training on gender-based violence, nutrition assessments, and physiotherapy,” she said.
Professor Lauri J. Romanzi from Thomas Jefferson University stressed the urgency of action, pointing out the preventable nature of fistula. “For every woman who survives this condition, many others lose their lives. Strengthening healthcare systems is vital to eradicating this issue,” she added.
A core element of MaHNIA will be a community-focused toolkit designed to address the specific needs of underserved populations in Nigeria. This toolkit will be developed collaboratively with local partners to ensure it is both practical and impactful.
Reflecting on her mission to drive social change, Linus said, “My film Dry tells the story of one girl, but it represents the plight of countless women facing similar struggles in silence. With MaHNIA, we’re not only amplifying their voices but also providing tangible solutions.”
The Maternal Health and Nutrition Initiative Africa marks a significant step forward in tackling the maternal health crisis across the continent. By combining healthcare, nutrition, and community engagement, this partnership aims to create a healthier, brighter future for women and children in underserved areas.
See photos from the event below.
