This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
On September 30, 2019, a health promotion team at Homa Bay County Referral hospital kicked off a campaign against epilepsy in the county.
A Non-Governmental Organisation, in partnership with the Bank of Africa and the National Epilepsy Coordination Committee, has launched a sensitisation campaign to address the stigma and discrimination faced by people with epilepsy and their families in Homa Bay county.
The initiative, dubbed Angaza Kifafa, aims to encourage persons with epilepsy to seek treatment and to educate families on how to better support people with epilepsy and their families.
According to Catherine Awuor, the Bank of Africa Manager in charge of Corporate Social Responsibility, many families in the county hide epileptic relatives at home due to myths and stigma associated with the condition.
“It is wrong that many people associate epilepsy with myths which prevent the victims from seeking the right medication in health facilities. This campaign will create awareness so that families with epileptic persons can take the victims to hospitals,” said Awuor.
Speaking at Homa Bay County Referral hospital, Awuor added that the campaign will be undertaken in various sub-counties in Homa Bay and will aim to educate residents on the importance of seeking medication for epilepsy.
“Epilepsy can be managed with drugs to allow the victim to participate in economic growth like other people without the condition,” said Awuor.
Deputy CEO of Homa Bay County Referral hospital, Peter Ogola, also spoke out against the practice of hiding epilepsy victims in the county.
“We have realised that many families hide their relatives who suffer from the condition at home to avoid being seen. This prevents the victims from acquiring the required medication,” said Ogola.
Dr Ogola urged residents to seek medication at the hospital, where epilepsy drugs are provided free of charge.
