Awareness-raising and Education
Despite being one of the oldest known neurological disorders, epilepsy is still often misunderstood and stigmatized in Africa. Many people have misconceptions about epilepsy, leading to the discrimination, stigmatization, and exclusion of people with epilepsy. One of our main goals is to raise awareness and educate communities about epilepsy, in order to break down these barriers and promote inclusivity. By providing accurate information about the condition, we aim to dispel myths and misconceptions, ultimately fostering a more supportive and understanding environment for individuals living with epilepsy in Africa. We do this through various educational programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns online. These initiatives are designed to reach different sectors of society, including schools, workplaces, and community organizations. By engaging with these diverse groups, we hope to empower individuals with the knowledge and understanding necessary to challenge stereotypes and advocate for the rights of people with epilepsy. Additionally, we collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure that accurate information about epilepsy is disseminated and integrated into medical practices across Africa.
Capacity-Building and Poverty-Alleviation
Most people with epilepsy in Africa live below the poverty line, which further exacerbates the challenges they face in accessing proper healthcare and support. We also work towards addressing socioeconomic barriers by providing skills training, seed capital, and job opportunities for people with epilepsy. By empowering them with the necessary skills, we aim to improve their financial independence and overall quality of life and break the cycle of poverty. Moreover, we donate clothing, food, medication, bedding, and other items to people with epilepsy who are unable to afford them.
Healthcare Provision
Africa is home to over 25 million people living with epilepsy, making it the most affected by this neurological disorder. The burden is exacerbated by a critical shortage of healthcare professionals trained in epilepsy management, which hinders accesss to epilepsy care. Consequently, most patients with epilepsy do not have proper diagnosis or treatment, leading to a higher risk of seizures and related complications.
To address this wide treatment gap, we use strategies such as community clinics in rural communities and telemedicine to reach remote areas and provide epilepsy diagnosis and treatment. These approaches help overcome geographical barriers and ensure that even patients with epilepsy living in underserved communities have access to the necessary healthcare services. Additionally, we train healthcare and community health workers to increase awareness about epilepsy, improve early detection, and provide basic care for those affected.