It’s not easy to change culture and beliefs

I believe my contribution to snakebite will continuously empower individuals and communities to save lives. My work involves educating people on the urgency of responding to snakebites, as it’s an emergency that can make a difference between life and death. I have received materials from HEPS Uganda that I use to show what to do in case of snakebite and stop people from certain practices that only endanger the victim’s situation. Such practices include walking in bushes without shoes but also tying up areas that have suffered snakebite using uncertified traditional medicines.

People need a messenger whom they know and trust and a message that is authentic and makes the difference they desire

In my sensitization work I have realized that it is extremely difficult to change culture and beliefs that have been handed over for many generations regarding how to respond to snake bites. So I am working with those community gate keepers and opinion leaders to convert them and front them as change agents, and I already see progress. People need a messenger whom they know and trust and a message that is authentic and makes the difference they desire – “Save lives.”

Robinah Kaitiritimba os the Executive Director of the Uganda National Health Consumers’ Organisation (UNHCO)

Robinah Kaitiritimba

Executive Director Uganda National Health Consumers’ Organisation (UNHCO)

Plot 302 Bukoto

Behind Kabira Country Club

Next to Posh Properties P.O Box 70095 Kampala Uganda Tel mob: +256 772 638451

Tel Office: +256 393 215007

This blog was written as part of the Women Champions of Snakebite campaign, supported by the Lillian Lincoln Foundation, Health Action International and Global Snakebite Initiative.

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