In Uganda, nearly one in every four newly born child dies. The mortality rates of children under five remain high. The life expectancy of an average Ugandan is only 54 years. These prominent conflicts the people of Uganda face make it clear that a need for higher health standards and public health need to be raised significantly in order to improve the quality of life for the average citizen, as well as to save lives.

Health Child is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising these standards and impacting the people of Uganda in a positive way. HC’s main objectives are decreasing mortality rates in women and children, lowering poverty rates of local communities, and empowering those without a voice or a strong social status. Education, civic duty, and participation are all ideals that are valued in the HC organization and are represented through the programs they host.

One of the most important ways that HC holds the fabric of the organization together is through the implementation of Information and Communication Technologies, otherwise known as ICTs. Giving out mobile phones allows professionals to remind mothers and children of important health appointments, as well as inform them of tips and tools they can implement to make healthy decisions.

The child protection programs of HC go about ensuring public health of Ugandan children in many ways. First, drama and theater programs funded by HC educate local communities on the issues facing children. In addition, HC funds school education and debates on child’s rights. Finally, the organization ensures that religious institutions are places where families can gather and discuss community issues.

Health Child, with the help of the Ugandan Government, generous donors and sponsors, and other organizations, brings hope to the people of Uganda that a better quality of life is attainable. Helping to raise the health standards of those most vulnerable, HC soon hopes to eradicate the issues most pressing to Uganda.

– William Norris

Sources: Health Child, UNICEF
Photo: The Guardian