For many women living with Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF), accessing treatment is not only a medical challenge but also a painful social and emotional struggle marked by stigma, isolation, and loss of dignity. Mainstream Foundation’s intervention in VVF care began with the story of a woman who had suffered from the condition for several years and needed urgent surgery.
Initially, efforts were made to secure treatment for her through a hospital referral to Sokoto State where one of the federal VVF hospitals are located. However, during the process, a conversation with Dr. Amina Bello-an obstetrician, gynaecologist, Founder of Raise Foundation, and former First Lady of Niger State-revealed that the surgery could be performed in Minna at a significantly lower cost. Rather than treating one patient, the same resources could support four women.
This decision marked the beginning of Mainstream Foundation’s structured intervention in VVF care. By the end of the initiative in 2016, twenty women had successfully undergone restorative surgeries, while a ward at Kontagora general hospital was renovated to improve patient care. More importantly, the Foundation recognized the urgent need for a sustained and large-scale intervention, especially with Nigeria recording over 12,000 new VVF cases annually.
Through a strategic partnership with Raise Foundation, Mainstream Foundation expanded its support to include the sponsorship of treatment and rehabilitation for women living with the condition. As interventions grew, another challenge became evident: many women avoided seeking help in general hospitals due to the stigma associated with VVF, particularly when forced to share hospital wards with other patients.
VVF, also known as obstetric fistula, is a severe injury associated with prolonged and obstructed labour. Women affected often experience continuous leakage of urine or faeces, leading to isolation, emotional trauma, social exclusion, and economic hardship.
To provide a more dignified and sustainable solution, Mainstream Foundation established the state-of-the-art Dr. Amina Bello Women Health Centre, located in Kontagora, Niger State. Commissioned in 2022 at a cost exceeding ₦500 million, the world-class facility provides specialized surgical and post-operative care for VVF patients amongst others. To date, Mainstream Foundation has sponsored over 355 successful obstetric fistula surgeries, spending nearly N200 million towards this intervention.
Beyond treatment, the centre offers rehabilitation through vocational training and empowerment programmes that support patients’ reintegration into society. Today, the centre stands as a symbol of hope, restoration, and renewed dignity for vulnerable women across Nigeria.
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