From a young age, Ms. Theresa Eunice dreamed of becoming a doctor or nurse. Her passion was fueled by a deep desire to see her community thrive; a vision often
overshadowed by the burden of preventable diseases that plagued her surroundings.

Yet, her aspirations were challenged by her humble beginnings. Despite the odds, Ms. Eunice refused to let her circumstances define her future. When an opportunity arose to
serve her community in a different capacity, she embraced it with unwavering pride and determination.

Since 2015, Eunice, a resident of Vihiga County, has been a beacon of hope in her community, serving as a dedicated community health worker (CHW) in Etuti Village, Emuhaya Sub-County.

“Every month, I am responsible for visiting all 104 households within my community unit,” Eunice shares.

During these visits, she provides essential healthcare education on maternal and child health, covering topics such as antenatal and postnatal care, nutrition, and general hygiene. She also conducts follow-ups with pregnant women, ensuring they deliver in health facilities, and tracks down families who have missed immunization appointments.

Equipped with training from the County Government in partnership with Living Goods, as well as digital tools and medical supplies, Eunice is able to diagnose and treat common illnesses like malaria and diarrhea in children under five. For more complex cases, she ensures timely referrals to hospitals.

“Our role is critical in promoting primary healthcare coverage. We are often the first responders during health emergencies or outbreaks,” says Eunice. She believes that female
Community Health Promoters (CHPs) deserve recognition, especially on International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8th.

In Vihiga County, where Eunice works, women make up 80% of the CHPs, as highlighted by the County Focal Person, Mr. Gabriel Masinde.

Eunice sees International Women’s Day as an opportunity to celebrate women who have made a difference in society, no matter how big or small their contributions.
“Thanks to our efforts, we no longer see the rampant infant and maternal mortalities we once did. We’ve also dispelled myths and misconceptions about hospital deliveries,” she explains.

However, her work is not without challenges. Eunice faces resistance from a society that sometimes values services provided by men over women. She also encounters older women who question her ability to educate them due to her age. Additionally, house visits can sometimes expose her to risks, including sexual harassment.

Eunice appeals to the government to create a safer and more supportive working environment for women, promote gender equality, and improve public understanding of
gender equity through sensitization programs.

Through her resilience and dedication, Ms. Theresa Eunice continues to inspire her community, proving that even the humblest beginnings can lead to extraordinary impact.