Terrewode Director Calls for Collective Efforts to End Obstetric Fistula
BY EDUNYU SAM
In a pressing call to action, Alice Emasu, the Director of Terrewode Women’s Community Hospital, has urged for united efforts to combat obstetric fistula, a severe health condition affecting many women in Uganda. This appeal was made during a visit by Rt. Rev. Prof. Alfred Olwa, the Anglican Bishop of Lango Diocese, to the hospital on Tuesday.
Emasu emphasized that early pregnancies are a significant contributor to the rising cases of obstetric fistula, noting that many young girls are becoming mothers at an alarmingly young age. Since its establishment in 2019, Terrewode has served patients from across Uganda, with the Lango region accounting for a considerable proportion of the cases.
“The challenge we face is not only medical but deeply rooted in societal issues,” Emasu stated. “We need the church and community leaders to take an active role in educating people and promoting strategies that can prevent obstetric fistula and maternal mortality.”
During her address, Emasu highlighted the role of the church in fostering male involvement in maternal health, urging leaders to leverage their influence to create awareness and support for women’s health issues. She condemned harmful cultural practices that push young girls into marriage when they become pregnant, leading to social stigma and discrimination in the community.
Emasu further noted that sexual violence is a critical factor in the development of obstetric fistula, adversely affecting the health and recovery of discharged patients. Many women suffering from this condition live in fear, which can hinder their adherence to medical advice.
Bishop Alfred Olwa resonated with Emasu’s sentiments, condemning the violence inflicted upon women, particularly those who are victims of rape. He attributed such acts to substance abuse and emphasized the need for men to approach relationships with love and respect.
“Biblically, our bodies are temples of God, and we must conduct ourselves in a manner that honors that sanctity,” Bishop Olwa remarked. He called on men to reject violence and promote understanding in their relationships, stressing that even the act of intimacy should be treated with respect and dignity.
Both leaders reinforced the importance of community engagement in addressing the challenges of obstetric fistula and ensuring the health and safety of women and girls in Uganda. Their impassioned plea serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence and the necessity for holistic solutions that involve all members of society.
