On 8 March every year, International Women’s Day is celebrated around the world to mark the political, economic and social achievements of women. We want to celebrate the women of Buburi who make the clinic a success and who are pivotal in improving the health of their families and community.
“There are so many women who inspire me in Buburi. Without their help, passion and dedication the clinic would not be possible. I can’t thank them enough.” – Jo Hanks, Friends of Buburi founder.
Buburi clinic staff and nurses
Clinic manager and administrator, Oda, is supported by enrolled nurse, Esther, nurse aid and pharmacy nurse, Rose and clinic receptionist, Eunice. The team will treat on average 30 patients a day, but during the wet season, when malaria is rife, the team can see up to 100 patients a day.
“The women of the clinic are all incredibly strong, dedicated and passionate. They share the same values – helping their community. For me, Oda is the most inspiring woman and the clinic has benefited beyond all recognition since she joined us. She has honesty and integrity and a wonderful gentle way about her, which is rare when life is difficult and you are living on the poverty line. She has had tragedy in her life with the loss of her husband and very recently the sudden loss of her daughter. Despite this, she still manages to head her household and manage the clinic with compassion and understanding.” – Jo Hanks, Friends of Buburi founder.
Mothers of Buburi
As mothers, wives and heads of households, it is often women who steer the health care choices of their families. Until Buburi clinic was established the choices were limited. The women of Buburi are now pushing the boundaries with health promotion and looking at the bigger picture, especially in terms of safe sex and family planning. Like every mother around the world, they just want the best health care available for their family.
“Kenyan women are so strong emotionally, they take everything that life throws at them and they just get on with it with very little fuss. We sometimes think our life is hard when the washing machine breaks down or the car conks out but that is nothing in comparison to the relentlessness of their lives. Although it is hard they are always ready to smile or laugh and that is truly inspiring.” Sallie Buck, Friends of Buburi trustee.
Community Health Workers
Our team of Community Health Workers are all volunteers. They are incredibly dedicated to the work of Buburi Health Clinic and believe passionately in improving the health of their community.
The team regularly visit vulnerable families and individuals in the community to raise awareness about malaria prevention and other health related issues, such as general hygiene and sanitation, ante and post natal care, nutrition during pregnancy and breast feeding, nutrition in children, treating dehydration, HIV/AIDS prevention and sexual health.
“Being a Community Health Worker is hard work but I am committed. I dedicate 2 or 3 days a week to the clinic and I still have to look after my family, my land and earn money. But I see people in need in my community or who have problems and I know I can help them. I can save a life and that makes it all worthwhile. That’s why I do it” – Agnes Khaduli, Community Health Worker since 1998.