RuWCED Commemorates WHD with Breastfeeding Mothers and Female Health Workers in Ndop District Hospital

RuWCED joined the women on August 19th 2019, in

celebrating the lives of health workers who died during the ongoing crisis in the North West region of Cameroon; as they also received donations while “Celebrating Women Humanitarians.”

During the two-day meeting, NDAH Martin, Reproductive Health Expert, shared his knowledge on Family Planning with the women who came for Infant Welfare Care (IWC) at Ndop District Hospital. Dr Darlene  on her part, laid emphasis on basic health tips that women can cope with, the kind of things they should have at home; especially during crises or emergencies since they have children with them.

These women were grateful for items donated by RuWCED. They were happy and considered themselves as humanitarians too. “The female health workers appreciated RuWCED’s concern and promised to continue with good and fair work.” RuWCED staff.
As we continue to celebrate women humanitarians, RuWCED honours her female workers from every corner of the country, who are braving the odds despite insecurity to impact the lives of vulnerable persons.

INTERVIEW

Dr. Darlene Nchufong, Ndop District Hospital

Thanks for accepting our request for an interview, Dr Darlene. As we celebrate WHD, we’ll like to have your opinion as a humanitarian worker, considering your rich experience on the field. How do you cope with work on the field during the ongoing crisis?
Work during the crisis is a whole new experience. With tension and insecurity, the available health care hardly reaches the population in need. We manage to go to work when we can, and stay indoors when it is not safe.

-What are your challenges?
We have limited health care providers who avail themselves for work following the insecurity and with the breech in transportation network, we do not have access to drugs and related materials in time.

-How can your situation be ameliorated? Any suggestions?
The crisis has crippled the economic situation of the entire population. Health care can become more accessible if the cost of health care services is subsidized.
None the less, we cannot hope for much improvement with the tension and the roads which are practically blocked, preventing movement of patients as well as health care workers.

-How do you handle emergencies during lockdowns, ghost towns or uprisings?
There’s a team always in place, trained to handle emergencies, most of which are obstetric emergencies and trauma. If there’s need for reinforcement, communication is done to that effect.

-What do you like about your job?
I find satisfaction in seeing sick people get well. In addition, putting a smile on faces and contributing to their well-being.

-Will you encourage other women to pursue careers in your field? Why? What should they expect before engaging themselves?
I encourage young girls to get into this field because there is the need for such health care givers. However, we should expect to find less time to spend with family and friends.
Thanks for your time, Dr Darlene!