Avoiding discrimination is key in dealing with COVID-19

As we soldier on, I wish to take this opportunity to applaud His Excellency the President of Uganda, Frontline Medics, the celebrated COVID-19 National Task Force, Security Force, the LC Structures, and all the wonderful people of this Country, for the invaluable and selfless efforts you have so far made to combat the deadly Pandemic through persistent sensitization, testing, isolation, and prompt treatment of those found to be positive with the virus. 

 

I commend too, the COVID-19 Response Fund Team for the continuous and effective resource mobilization for essential supplies and food for the vulnerable and disadvantaged section of our society. This affirmative action should carry the hallmarks of equity and fair play for the benefit of all those in dire need. 

 

There is no doubt that Uganda is now highly ranked as a centre of excellence in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic. This clearly testifies to the strong will the government has for the preservation of Life of its citizens and others across the globe. The several guidelines and safety measures notified to the public from time to time again strongly testifies to the grim determination by the government to mitigate all risks associated with the pandemic. 

 

Bravo! While I do not encourage complacency on the part of the citizens, I strongly urge that we continue to remain alert to the fatal effect of the virus. I thankfully draw comfort though, from the fact that no life has so far been lost to the virus, and this largely is due to our strict compliance with the safety guidelines. I pray therefore that we sustain the vigilance to remain alive, despite the numerous financial and other challenges. 

 

At the end of it all, no matter how long the pandemic takes, victory awaits!! On a sad note, however, victims of Covid-19 continue to suffer stigmatization, discrimination, and rejection by their own kith and Kin, in a manner that polarizes and marginalizes them, to the extent that they are rendered "persona non grata" in their own society. Is this fair? Certainly not! It is despicable! The question is: why the discrimination? Does it arise from lack of basic knowledge about the disease and how it spreads? 

 

I wish to suggest that wider sensitization be rolled out to the rural population through the existing health facilities countrywide, with a view of deepening awareness and demystifying the myths that still seem to surround COVID -19. 

 

A case in point is that of one MUSA MIIRO who was reported to have been rejected by his community in Kisubi upon returning home after spending 18 days on COVID-19 treatment in Mulago Hospital. (See Saturday Vision of 27th April 2020) such hostile conduct should be condemned in the strongest terms! 

 

In the same vein, the likes of philanthropist Sylvia Namutebi (commonly known as Maama Fina) should be emulated by all and sundry in as far as she promptly responded to the distress call of the marginalized MUSA MIIRO. It is also probable that such discrimination may be orchestrated by lawless sadists and bullies. If so, the law should take its course and serve justice to ensure harmony and equality among community members, regardless of their health status or other baseless considerations. 

 

Be notified that the Equal Opportunities Commission is readily available to receive and expeditiously handle complaints arising from COVID-19 related discrimination or marginalization, and will, as of essence execute its constitutional mandate under Article 32 to eliminate discrimination and inequalities against any individual or group of persons on the ground of health status, among others. Stay Safe as we promote Equal Opportunities for all!!