Health being a central pillar of RIDE AFRICA, we prioritize inclusive, rights-based, and culturally responsive health interventions that address the unique vulnerabilities faced by women, children, and other vulnerable people in Western Uganda. We focus on strengthening community health systems, improving access to quality and equitable health services, and empowering households with the knowledge and agency to make informed health decisions. This is done through promoting maternal health , sexual, and reproductive health Rights (SRHR), Health Safety Campaign community disease prevention and health promotion. We work in alignment with national health priorities and global health frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 on Good Health and Wellbeing, SDG 5 on Gender Equality, and SDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities
Dr. Magezi appreciates RIDE-AFRICA’s community campaigns on maternal health .
Safe Delivery Saves Lives Campaigns.
In Ruteete Sub-County, many mothers used to give birth in their homes with the help of traditional birth attendants. Some mothers had serious problems, like too much bleeding because there was no medical help nearby. Many reached the health center when it was already too late. “Before, we lost many mothers and babies because they came late or delivered in villages.” Says Sarah a nurse at Ruteete Health Centre IV.
Then RIDE-AFRICA started campaigns to sensitize and mobilize the community. They met local leaders, families, and traditional attendants to teach about the dangers of home delivery and the importance of delivering at the health center.
Currently, more mothers come early for antenatal care and choose to deliver at the health center. There are fewer cases of complications, and mothers receive better follow-up after giving birth. Even traditional birth attendants now support the health workers by referring pregnant women for safe delivery.
“We thank RIDE-AFRICA,” says Nurse Sarah. “Because of their work, more mothers and babies are safe today, and our community understands the value of skilled care.”