The Tarok Progressive Youth Association (TAPYA), the umbrella body of Tarok Youth Worldwide, has appealed for urgent intervention in the supply of anti-snake venom, Hepatitis B vaccines, and other essential medical commodities to communities across Tarok land.
Led by its National President, Amb. Miri Timnan Nyantau (M.T.N), the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Director General, Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA), Pharm. Kim Jerry Bot, in Jos.
Amb. Nyantau congratulated Pharm. Bot on his appointment by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of competence and dedication. He commended the DG for stabilizing the agency and ensuring that medical commodities remain accessible to the people of the state.
He also lauded Governor Mutfwang for trusting the youth to drive the “Time Is Now” mantra of his administration, noting that young people have a critical role to play in transforming the health and economic sectors of the state.
The TAPYA President highlighted the alarming rate of snakebites in Tarok land and the scarcity and high cost of anti-snake venom, which he said has led to several avoidable deaths. He emphasized that once anti-snake venom becomes available and affordable, resources currently spent on treatment could instead be channeled toward productive economic activities thereby empowering youth and reducing restiveness.
Amb. Nyantau also called on the agency to ensure the availability and affordability of Hepatitis B vaccines, stressing that many have died from the disease, while some Tarok youths have been disqualified from recruitment opportunities after testing positive for Hepatitis B.
In his remarks, Dr. Dorkur David Dafam appealed for the inclusion of Typhoid and Cholera vaccines, citing their devastating impact on local communities. Pharm. Julfa Kumswa advised the agency to collaborate with the private sector in the areas of cooling, storage, and distribution to ensure sustainability and efficiency.
Responding, Pharm. Kim Jerry Bot expressed deep appreciation to the Tarok Youth for the visit, noting that as a friend of Tarok nation, he shares the pains of Tarok people. He commended Governor Mutfwang’s heavy investment in anti-snake venom and other medical commodities, assuring that areas like Tarok land with high prevalence of snakebites would be prioritized in distribution.
To the delight of his guests, Pharm. Bot announced that the State Government is finalizing plans to establish a Snake Management Centre in Langtang, where trained professionals will provide specialized care and response. He assured that under the Mutfwang administration, deaths from snakebites will soon become a thing of the past.
He further reiterated the Governor’s vision of building a healthy and prosperous Plateau State, urging the Tarok Youth to continue supporting the government as it delivers the dividends of democracy to the people.
Amb. Nyantau pledged the unflinching support of the Tarok nation to the Mutfwang administration, promising continued partnership toward advancing healthcare and youth development.
Giving the vote of thanks, Comr. Nanzing Nimyel Napoleon, State Secretary of the Plateau State Youth Council, appreciated the Director General for his reassuring words and prayed for divine wisdom in his leadership. The session ended with a prayer by Nancwat Sambo for the Governor, the DG, and the entire state.
