Elizabeth and Jonah: the First Female Batwa Nurses at Bwindi Community Hospital

"I recently finished my nursing course at Uganda Nursing School Bwindi, and I am glad that Bwindi Community Hospital has given me a job. I work in the Community Health and Batwa Department, where I interact with and provide services to my fellow Batwa. I also participate in the immunization program for Batwa babies and children," says 22-year-old Nahwera, Elizabeth from Byumba settlement.

Elizabeth and Jonah are the first female Batwa nurses at Bwindi Community Hospital. They studied at Uganda Nursing School Bwindi with support from the Kellerman Foundation, challenging common stereotypes about the Batwa people. For most of their education, they have been supported by the Kellermann Foundation through the Batwa Development Program.

She wanted to become a nurse. Studying nursing would allow her to participate in improving the health status of her fellow Batwa.

"I loved studying and gaining more knowledge. I also knew that school fees wouldn’t be a problem if I wanted to study," Elizabeth adds, expressing her gratitude to the Batwa Development Program, the Kellerman Foundation, and Uganda Nursing School Bwindi for making her dreams come true.

Like Elizabeth, 20-year-old Tumushabe Jonah is also breaking societal barriers to achieve professional success in nursing. She works in the Surgical ward of Bwindi Community Hospital, where she loves to help and make patients feel better.

"Most importantly, I am happy because I am working with doctors and specialists who are very kind to me, always teaching and mentoring me," Jonah shares.

Elizabeth and Jonah are not only respectable members of their communities in Byumba and Nteko settlements but also role models for many young girls in these settlements, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and break free from stereotypes and biases

They are not just healthcare providers; they are symbols of hope, strength, and transformation for the Batwa community and beyo

These Batwa nurses hope that more Batwa women will join the healthcare and other professions, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive professional community.

For Bwindi Community Hospital, the presence of female Batwa nurses is a testament to fair treatment, the participation of all people, and the impact the hospital has had on the community in the past two decades. Elizabeth and Jonah not only serve the Batwa communities, but they also empower and encourage the Batwa people to serve amongst themselves.

By Elizabeth Namara