The wife of Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra, Ebelechukwu Obiano, has called for mandatory genotype tests for all intending couples.

Mrs Obiano, who is also the founder of the Caring Family Enhancement Initiative (CAFE), made the call while receiving an award from the London Borough of Brent, at Aguleri near Awka on Thursday.

The award is in recognition of her contributions in creating awareness and support for people living with sickle cell disorder and disabilities.

In her remarks, the governor’s wife recalled the pain of losing one of her daughters to sickle cell disease some years ago.

She said the experience gave her the courage to work for the welfare and well-being of persons living with sickle cell.

“My involvement in awareness creation about the dangers of sickle cell extends advocacy to advising intending couples to go for mandatory genotype test before marriage.

“I also advise persons living with sickle cell disorder to always go for support,” she said.

Mrs Obiano commended the Brent Council and Mayor of the Borough for partnering with CAFE since 2019, stressing that the relationship had achieved huge results.

Earlier, the Mayor, Councilor Ernest Ezeajughi, applauded Mrs Obiano’s contribution in creating awareness and support for people living with sickle cell anaemia and other disabilities.

Mr Ezeajughi also commended her for providing medical and emotional solace to those living with sickle cell as well as children suffering from congenital mouth disorders – cleft lip and cleft palate.

He assured her of continued collaboration in sustaining her humanitarian programmes.

(NAN)