The Day two of the Sickle Cell Health Promotion Campaign at Abako Child Development Center drew dozens of children and caregivers, highlighting the growing commitment to improving sickle cell awareness and care in Uganda.
The initiative, spearheaded by Compassion International Uganda in partnership with the Catherine Phil Sickle Cell Support Initiative, combines education, free testing, counseling, and healthcare referrals to reach families in need.
The 10-day outreach, covering Otuke, Alebtong, and Kalaki districts, is designed to ensure even remote communities gain access to life-changing services. Through interactive sessions, participants are learning about early detection, disease management, prevention, and timely medical intervention, empowering families to take control of their health.
“Every child and caregiver we reach is a step closer to stronger communities and healthier lives,” said campaign organisers. “We want households to understand that sickle cell disease is manageable with proper care, and that it is not a result of witchcraft.”
Rev. Onyang Alex, Project Overseer at Onotam Child Development Center, praised the partnership, noting that it has made vital sickle cell services accessible to children and caregivers who might otherwise lack support. He also emphasized the importance of sickle cell screening before marriage as a preventative measure.
The campaign’s focus on education and early intervention is already making a difference. Families leave better informed, with access to testing, counseling, and referral pathways, ensuring that children living with sickle cell disease can thrive.
With the outreach continuing across districts, organizers hope to reach more families, strengthen community health knowledge, and create a culture of proactive care, ensuring that sickle cell disease is addressed with knowledge, compassion, and medical support.