Meet Umu Shour, the dedicated nutritionist at Rural Health Care Initiative (RHCI) in Tikonko Chiefdom. Since joining in 2020, Umu’s days are a testament to the transformative impact RHCI is making in the lives of vulnerable communities.
Umu’s morning began at Bo Children’s Hospital, where she diligently checked on patients transferred from their villages by RHCI for acute hospital care. During this recent interview, she encountered a young child battling a severe hand infection, highlighting the critical role RHCI plays in facilitating access to essential healthcare.
While ensuring children in need receive the nourishment they require, Umu’s impactful work extends to empowering pregnant women at the Mbao-mi Mothers’ Home in Tikonko. On this particular day, she conducted sessions on early and exclusive breastfeeding, infant warning signs, the significance of vaccines, and the crucial role of good nutrition. This follows a similar training at the Gondama Birth Waiting Home the day before.
Embarking on a motorbike journey to the outreach point at Gelehun, Umu oversees the growing malnutrition clinic. The increase in attendance, she explains, is twofold. Firstly, Community Health Workers, trained by RHCI, are actively identifying malnourished children in their villages and encouraging parents to seek help at RHCI outreach clinics. Secondly, rising food prices and limited access to a healthy food supply have led to a worsening food shortage in the villages.
Between her field activities, Umu dedicates time to meticulous documentation on the computer, ensuring that her experiences and insights are shared with the RHCI team in the USA.
When asked about the message she wants to convey to RHCI supporters, Umu’s response reflects the profound impact of their contributions: “Since RHCI started, child deaths have decreased. RHCI cannot stop the problem of child malnutrition in Sierra Leone, but RHCI has saved so many lives with its programs. RHCI has made a huge impact in the communities. God will reward the people that support RHCI.”
Umu’s day is a snapshot of the incredible work facilitated by RHCI, showcasing the tangible difference made possible through the generosity and support of RHCI’s donors. Your commitment is not just funding; it’s a lifeline for communities striving to overcome the challenges of healthcare access and malnutrition in Sierra Leone. Together, we are creating a brighter, healthier future.
