Uganda Red Cross Strengthens Community Protection in Fort Portal
In a renewed effort to promote public health and safety, the Uganda Red Cross Society, with support from UNICEF, has launched a major awareness campaign in Fort Portal Tourism City and Kabarole District. The campaign focuses on preventing the spread of diseases like Ebola and Mpox, and tackling sexual exploitation and abuse, particularly in schools and communities.
“We are engaging school communities, media, health workers, and local leaders. Everyone must become a community surveillance camera,” said Asiima Samantha, a Red Cross project officer.
Local leaders have echoed the need for community involvement. Kansiime Gladcy, a school inspector, condemned the abuse of young girls and boys in schools and called for action to stop it. Night Rose, a senior woman teacher, emphasized the role of parents, urging them to take responsibility for their children’s screen time and behavior.
Health officials are also playing a key role. Kahunde Lucy, a senior health inspector, said they are training teachers and students on disease prevention. She stressed the need for schools to have handwashing stations and temperature guns, although some schools say they lack such equipment.
“We need support—structures, hand washing equipment, even basic protective tools,” appealed Kabasinguzi Irene, deputy headteacher of St. John Mary Vianney.
Through school visits, community dialogues, and media outreach, the Uganda Red Cross and UNICEF aim to build a safer and more informed society.