The National Public Health Institute (NPHI) has urged community leaders to strengthen grassroots efforts to prevent and respond to Bundibugyo Ebola Vi...
The National Public Health Institute (NPHI) has urged community leaders to strengthen grassroots efforts to prevent and respond to Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease (BVD) following the conclusion of a three-day orientation workshop in South Sudan.The workshop aimed to strengthen community participation, improve public awareness and promote coordinated efforts in preventing and responding to disease outbreaks.Speaking at the closing ceremony, NPHI Acting Executive Director Dr. Ader Macar Aciek Sr. called on community leaders to work closely with the government and its partners by raising awareness, sharing accurate health information and mobilising residents to take part in disease prevention efforts.Dr. Ader said community leaders play a critical role in public health emergency preparedness because of their influence, credibility and close relationships with the communities they serve.He urged them to use their positions to educate residents about Ebola prevention, encourage early reporting of suspected cases, counter misinformation and promote timely access to healthcare services.He also stressed that effective outbreak prevention and response require collective responsibility and strong cooperation among the government, development partners, community leaders and the public."Community leaders are the bridge between the government, health authorities and the communities. Your role goes beyond sharing information; you must help communities understand the risks, recognise warning signs, report suspected cases early and take the necessary preventive measures," Dr. Ader said.The three-day orientation equipped participants with knowledge and information to support grassroots mobilisation, improve community awareness, build public trust in health interventions and strengthen local involvement in BVD preparedness and response.NPHI said it continues to work with the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and other partners to strengthen the country's capacity to prepare for and respond to public health emergencies.The institute said its approach recognises the importance of informed, engaged and empowered communities in preventing disease outbreaks and protecting public health.Photo Credit: Ministry of Health
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