Source: Coastweek.com
Kenya's First Lady Margaret Kenyatta on Friday called upon individuals and corporate institutions to support the treatment of women affected by fistula.
Kenyatta observed that such assistance will enable Kenyatta National Hospital, African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF) and other partners extend free services to women affected by the condition in the rural areas.
Speaking in Nairobi when she launched the 8th National Free Fistula annual medical camp and awareness walk, Kenyatta cited Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) as the most common type of fistula in the country.
"We recognize that women and families affected by this condition are deprived of their self esteem; it adversely affects their social development leading to withdrawal and depression due to discrimination and stigmatization by other members of society," she said.
Reproductive health problems remain the leading cause of ill health and death for women of childbearing age in Kenya.
The First Lady urged Kenyans to join hands and help the affected women restore their dignity, lift their spirits and bring joy back in their lives through treatment.