Officially launched in Lagos to provide essential medications for respiratory illnesses, such as inhalers, to people living with asthma; earlier in May, the “Breathe Easy Project” by IA initiative was taken to Mpape community, Abuja.
IA initiative is a non-profit organization focused on strengthening health systems, improving access to healthcare and health finance through innovation and the use of technology. On the 6th of May 2025, this initiative had their first community-based Breathe Easy Outreach for residents of the Mpape community – a low resource community in Abuja.
Founded in 2024 by Olakunle Yusuf, Asmau Bafarawa and Olawale Yusuf, the initiative was created as a result of personal experiences with people living with Asthma and the difficulties encountered in securing medications. Especially for those in the low socioeconomic class, who cannot afford the prices of medications and cost of care.
According to one of the founders, “the outreach as part of IA initiative’s Breathe Easy program, allows us spread awareness and provide medical care to people – who otherwise have restricted access to care. One of our founders is living with Asthma, so we understand the challenges patients could face trying to get necessary medications in this current economic state of the country.
At the outreach, a health talk on Asthma attack and its prevention in the community was delivered. General knowledge and misconceptions about Asthma were discussed, with clinical care and refreshments made available for all participants. While referrals and inhalers were provided for those needing it.
In the feedback from one of the team members, “the outreach was a whole day-affair that commenced by 9am, and by the end of the program we had provided health education and care to about 120 participants, including given out free inhalers. Another member of the organising team for the event commented, “the impact of the outreach was felt, as we were able to support people who needed the provided services. And I would love to be a part of this again”.
To connect, partner, or follow the works of the IA Initiative, you can reach out to them with them via their social media pages on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter.
