Uganda to integrate post-surgery support for obstetric fistula survivors
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The Ugandan Ministry of Health plans to incorporate post-surgery programs into existing national initiatives to support women who survive obstetric fistula.
This condition, which causes an abnormal opening between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, often results from prolonged labor without emergency care. The government aims to provide these services to women who cannot afford private care on their own.
Dr Richard Mugahi, the Commissioner for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health, stated that surgery alone is not enough for full recovery. He argued that survivors also need psychosocial support, economic opportunities, and community acceptance to successfully rejoin society. The government intends to link these efforts with the Parish Development Model to ensure a holistic recovery process for those affected. The Association for Rehabilitation and Re-Orientation of Women for Development (TERREWODE) launched an Individualized Community Reintegration Model to support this transition.
Alice Emasu Seruyange, the founder of TERREWODE, explained that the model connects women to health services, livelihood training, and community networks. She urged the government to standardize this model nationwide to address the social isolation and economic hardship that many survivors face.
