Pader, Uganda: The Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Pader, Augustine Omongin, has called on residents to embrace government poverty alleviation initiatives as a pathway to improved household incomes and sustainable livelihoods.
Omongin made the remarks during the World Hepatitis Day commemoration at Acholibur Secondary School in Acholibur Town Council, Pader District, where the Hepatitis B birth dose vaccine was officially launched.
He highlighted various government programs designed to uplift communities, including the Youth Livelihood Program, Special Grants for Persons with Disabilities and Older Persons, Uganda Women Entrepreneurial Empowerment Program, Emyooga, Parish Development Model, and the GROW Project.
Omongin further encouraged locals to adopt the Four-Acre Model, stressing that food security is the foundation of prosperity.
“Without food, you won’t have money. Without food, you cannot send your children to school. Whatever little you earn will only go toward buying food. I encourage you to form groups, open land especially now that it is raining, and implement the Four-Acre Model. It is the only way we can lift ourselves out of poverty,” Omongin said.
Minister Aceng dispels vaccine misinformation
Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who presided over the launch of the Hepatitis B birth dose vaccine, condemned misinformation surrounding immunization campaigns.
She emphasized the importance of vaccinating babies within 24 hours of birth to prevent mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis, which affects over 9% of the population in Northern Uganda, compared to the national average of 4.5%.
“Many people still believe in myths spread by selfish politicians who claim that the government brings immunization to harm its citizens. These beliefs are false and misleading,” Dr. Aceng said. “We need a healthy community that engages in developmental activities to build wealth, rather than wasting time and resources treating preventable diseases,” she added.
WHO pledges continued support
Tonny Akera, the World Health Organization (WHO) Field Coordinator for Northern Uganda, speaking on behalf of the country representative, urged communities to fight stigma and seek treatment.
“We must break the silence and raise awareness so that no one suffers in isolation. WHO remains committed to supporting Uganda with funding, resources, and technical guidance to eliminate hepatitis and strengthen our health systems,” Akera said.
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