By Aggrey Baba
In Buganda, a land rich in culture and business, leaders have come together to fight a silent enemy, malaria. This deadly disease has troubled the region for many years, especially affecting children.
The Commissioner for Health Services – Health Promotion and Education, Dr. Richard Kabanda, led the discussion, reminding leaders that Buganda, as the heart of Uganda’s economy, is a meeting point for people from all over the country. But with this movement comes the danger of disease spread.
“Buganda is like a great market where people come to trade and work,” Dr. Kabanda said. “But just as firewood brings warmth, it also attracts termites. We must be careful and protect ourselves from diseases like malaria.”
He explained that children under five years old are the most affected because their bodies are still weak. The government has introduced a malaria vaccine to protect them, alongside mosquito nets and other treatments. However, false information on social media is stopping some parents from accepting the vaccine.
“Some people say the vaccine is unsafe, but that is not true,” Dr. Kabanda warned. “We must speak the truth and teach our people the right things.”
He urged cultural leaders to talk to parents and encourage them to complete all four doses of the vaccine, especially the last one, which many mothers forget.
The leaders in the meeting agreed to take action. They promised to spread the message in their communities, using cultural gatherings and everyday conversations to educate people. They understood that malaria is not just a health issue, but it is about protecting the future of Buganda.
Dr. Kabanda felt hopeful. He knew the journey would be difficult, but with strong community support, they could defeat malaria.
Buganda is not only a place of business, but also a land of health and strength. With unity, its people will keep moving forward, just like a river that never stops flowing.(For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
