In the heart of Guinea-Bissau’s Bafata region, a powerful exmple of community-driven change is transforming lives. Thanks to leaders like Maimuna Djau and the Community Management Committee (CMC) of Tabato, a recent malaria vaccination campaign highlights how human rights education empowers communities to take control of their wellbeing, turning knowledge into life-saving action.
Fighting Malaria with Knowledge and Action
Malaria remains a threat, causing over 600,000 deaths globally each year, with African children under five disproportionately affected, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In Guinea-Bissau, where malaria accounts for over 22% of medical consultations, the urgency for prevention is critical. Responding to this, the Ministry of Public Health launched a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting children aged 0 to 9.
In Tabato, this initiative became a community-led mission. Equipped with knowledge from Tostan’s Community Empowerment Program (CEP), members of the CMC engaged families directly, emphasizing that vaccinating children is a fundamental right and a crucial step toward ending preventable deaths.
From Skeptic to Champion: Maimuna’s Transformative Journey
Maimuna Djau’s story exemplifies the critical role individuals play in social change. Initially hesitant about vaccinating her children, her perspective shifted after attending Tostan’s human rights education sessions.
“I learned that vaccinating my children means respecting their right to health,” she reflects.
Maimuna didn’t stop at transforming her own beliefs. She became a vocal advocate, organizing community meetings and addressing mothers who shared her initial concerns. Collaborating with CMC leaders like Aladje Baio, she reminded families of malaria’s devastating toll on their community.
Her leadership paid off. On vaccination day, Maimuna’s efforts helped ensure a strong turnout, contributing to the immunization of 111 children—60 girls and 51 boys. This success illustrates how empowered individuals can mobilize their communities, turning education into collective action and life-saving outcomes.
A Model for Sustainable Change
Tabato’s story demonstrates the power of grassroots leadership. By fostering a deep understanding of health as a human right, Tostan’s approach equips communities to take control of their well-being.
In Guinea-Bissau and beyond, community-driven efforts like these are not only combating malaria but also building a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and hope.
