Joan Kabayambi: Fighting Obstetric Fistula, Uganda’s Silent Crisis

<p>Most women living with obstetric fistula suffer in silence, stigmatised and unseen. <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joan-p-kabayambi-3a029029/" target="_blank">Joan Kabayambi</a> has spent over 16 years changing that. As the founder of HAFSO-U, she has dedicated her career to fighting obstetric fistula, restoring dignity, and reintegrating women back into their communities through advocacy, treatment access, and grassroots action.</p><p></p><p>In this episode, Joan breaks down what obstetric fistula really is, why it is more than a medical condition but a social injustice rooted in poverty, gender inequality, and stigma, and what genuine healing and reintegration looks like for survivors. She shares how community-driven approaches, peer support, and practical skills training are transforming lives across East Africa, and why ignoring this crisis leaves millions of women vulnerable.</p><p></p><p>Joan also speaks to her broader work in maternal health, governance, women's economic empowerment, and water and sanitation, and how all of it connects to one vision: women who thrive in every area of life.</p><p></p><p>This conversation is for health practitioners, development advocates, social entrepreneurs, and anyone who believes every woman's dignity is worth fighting for.</p><p></p><p>🎙️ The SHE Centre Podcast is produced by SHE Centre, a free digital platform connecting East African women with community, resources, and support.</p><p>🌍 <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://shecentreplatform.com" target="_blank"><b>shecentreplatform.com</b></a></p><p></p><p>📲 Follow us @The_SheCentre_Platform on Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | Facebook This is exactly why.</p><p></p><p>📍 <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://shecentreplatform.com" target="_blank"><b>shecentreplatform.com</b></a></p><p></p>