KOLE, UGANDA: Village Health Teams (VHTs) in Kole District have received public health safety gumboots from the Ministry of Health in a move aimed at improving their safety and strengthening service delivery in hard-to-reach communities.
The distribution, conducted at the district headquarters on Thursday, was officiated by Assistant District Health Officer Olum Felix Dwellington, who said protecting frontline health workers is critical to strengthening the health system at the grassroots.
“These gumboots are more than protective gear; they are recognition of the vital role our VHTs play in preventing diseases and promoting health in every village,” he said.
Olum noted that VHTs often operate in swampy and flood-prone areas, exposing them to health risks while delivering essential services such as disease prevention, health education, and household visits.
“Our VHTs are the first line of defence against disease outbreaks. Ensuring their safety means our communities are safer too,” he added.
The beneficiaries welcomed the intervention, saying it will significantly improve their ability to reach households, especially during the rainy season.
Acen Rose, a VHT from Aboke Sub-county, said the gumboots would ease movement in difficult terrain. “Before, I sometimes had to skip household visits because the paths were too risky. Now I can move freely,” she said.
Ocen Peter noted that the lack of protective gear had exposed them to infections. “We walk through contaminated areas and floodwaters. This support gives us confidence to serve better,” he said.
Auma Betty added that improved safety will enhance service delivery, particularly to vulnerable groups. “When you feel safe, you can focus on helping others. This will improve how we reach mothers and children,” she said.
District leaders described the distribution as a timely intervention to strengthen community health systems.
Kole District Secretary for Health and Education, Patrick Oding, said VHTs remain central to health education, disease prevention, and early detection. “Providing them with protective gear strengthens the entire community health system,” he said.
Kole District Woman MP Judith Alyek also emphasised the importance of sustained support. “Our VHTs are the backbone of healthcare in rural areas. Providing them with protective gear is not a luxury—it is a necessity,” she noted.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Health to improve working conditions for frontline health workers and expand access to healthcare services in rural communities.
Officials say equipping VHTs will enhance outreach in high-risk and hard-to-access areas, ultimately improving health outcomes across the district.
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