Success Story
A community champion connects seven fistula survivors to treatment
In his first three months, a male community champion in Buswale identified and referred seven obstetric-fistula survivors to surgical camps at Buyinja Health Centre IV.
A bridge between communities and care
People living with obstetric fistula may delay seeking treatment because of limited information, transport barriers, stigma or uncertainty about where help is available. In island and hard-to-reach parts of Namayingo, these barriers can be especially difficult.
Through the STOP Programme, community champions receive the knowledge and connections needed to identify people who may need support, share accurate information and make referrals through approved channels.
Seven referrals in three months
Within his first three months as a champion, a male volunteer from Buswale identified and referred seven fistula survivors to surgical camps at Buyinja Health Centre IV. He worked with the survivors and the facility's maternal and child-health team to support connection to care.
The achievement demonstrates the value of trusted messengers who understand both community realities and the health referral system. It also shows how male engagement can support maternal health when it promotes respect, timely care and women's dignity.
The wider system behind the story
The champion's action is part of a broader model involving health facilities, district teams, village health structures, Male Action Groups, Women Mentors, cultural and religious leaders and programme partners. Each contributes to awareness, identification, referral, follow-up or reintegration.