In the heart of Malaba, a border town in Busia County, lives Violet Musimbi—a woman who has spent over two decades walking alongside her neighbours, not just as a caregiver, but as a lifeline. As a Community Health Promoter (CHP), Violet is the first responder, the trusted educator, and often, the only bridge between the health system and her community.

For 20 years, Violet has served tirelessly. But her journey has not been without its challenges, especially as a woman.

“Some community members, especially educated men, look down on me. ‘What does she know?’ they say, just because I’m a woman from the village,” Violet says.

The obstacles she faces are complex. While she’s expected to provide quality care, society also demands that she uphold traditional roles at home, mother, wife, caregiver. Her daily reality is a constant balancing act between family responsibilities and long hours in the field, often underappreciated and unpaid.

Gender bias lingers in subtle and not-so-subtle ways.

“Sometimes, women mistrust me when they see me giving health talks to their husbands. They think it’s something more,” Violet shares quietly. And yet, Violet chooses hope.

She speaks with quiet pride when she talks about what’s changed since she first began. The days of unsafe home births are gone. Deaths among children under five have drastically reduced. Health knowledge in the community has grown and so has trust.

“Now, more women are giving birth safely in health facilities. Children are vaccinated. People are informed. That’s what keeps me going.”

Her story is a powerful reminder: the success of community health depends not just on the availability of services, but on the resilience, empathy, and commitment of people like Violet, especially women, who face unique social barriers yet carry the health of their communities on their shoulders.