Nangiro Peter, a 57-year-old from Oyapuwa village in Kotido District, Karamoja, Uganda, endured months of persistent coughing and weakness, fearing for his life. Karamoja has one of the highest TB burdens in Uganda, with a notification rate significantly above the national average. It was through a routine community sensitization and screening, led by Meron Anna Grace, a Community Own Resource Person (CORP), that Nangiro’s TB was diagnosed.
Meron, working under the Warrior Squad Foundation’s TB program, quickly took action, collecting sputum samples from Nangiro and his family members. Once confirmed, a team from Nakapelimoru Health Center III began his treatment and also provided preventative drugs to his family. “Meron was a life-saver,” Nangiro says, recalling her regular visits and encouragement, which helped him stay on track with his medication.
Despite facing side effects, Nangiro’s commitment, along with the support from his wife, Maria, and the health team, led to his full recovery. “I had lost weight, and people thought I had HIV, but now I’m back to full health,” he shares. Nangiro is now passionate about raising awareness, becoming a community champion for TB prevention. "I want to tell others there is hope. TB is curable, and everyone deserves to live a healthy life," he says.
His story highlights the power of early diagnosis, effective treatment, and community support in overcoming tuberculosis.
