The Story of Ombome Oto
posted: 07/08/2002
Anne Hibbert has for the past three years worked in development aid in sub-Saharan Africa. Working on a health management project she spent the time in Ohangwena in the north of Namibia, one of the poorest regions of this southern African country.
The initial work involved vast amounts of data collection and as the infor-mation base of statistics increased, so did the realisation of the economic and social effects of HIV on an already poverty stricken people.
For many years during the war for independence this highly populated area was the centre of guerrilla activities, evidenced by the number of buildings still bearing the scars of battle.
The Kwanyama peoples of the Oshandi settlement area survive only on periodic subsistence agriculture, living in traditional homesteads which lack access to safe water and sanitation.
Electricity supply is variable, and telephone communication weak. Road systems are poor and travel between settlements and townships, schools and health facilities difficult.
Against this background of economic suffering is the major health problem of HIV. The estimate is that 23% of the adult population are HIV positive and HIV is now the major cause of death in adults in the age group 20-49. There are an increasing number of orphans, many of whom cannot be cared for by families or social services. There are no drug treatments and hospitals and clinics are over-whelmed by the demand for services for patient care and treatment.
The Government and aid agencies are working to provide a programme of prevention and care, but the lack of resources often fails to reach the poorest areas.
The grass roots response from the Oshandi community resulted in the setting up of "Ombome Oto" (literally "fighting the snake"). This volunteer care programme, managed entirely by the community, provides advice on preventative strategies, home care, counselling, humanitarian and spiritual help for people with HIV and their families.
Technological support has been from aid workers who have helped in developing a constitution and in getting the project registered as a charitable trust. Financial support from a faith based organisation in the UK is ongoing.
The Oshandi community spirit is inspirational in the support of its' people and in the promotion of respect for human rights for all.
Ann Hibbert
Ann is committed to returning to Namibia, to continue the work with other communities. Meanwhile she is continuing with fundraising activities and is working as a volunteer with GHT, hoping to gain a wider understanding of HIV issues.
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