The Queen Mother of Bongo Feo, Pognaba Agamboka Felicia, is urging communities to prioritise education, compassion and early diagnosis in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) and other health challenges.
Speaking about her work on the District TB Advocacy Committee, Pognaba Agamboka said many people still struggle to differentiate between a normal cough and TB, leading to self-medication and delayed treatment.
“Even though TB is not a new disease, many people still see it as something new because they don’t know the difference between a cough and TB,” she said. “People buy drugs to calm it down instead of going for proper diagnosis.”
She said her advocacy focuses on demystifying TB, explaining its curability and informing communities that treatment is free. She frequently speaks at churches and public gatherings, encouraging congregants to share accurate health information with their families.
“About a month ago, I gave a talk in the church about TB. I told them it is curable and it is free. If someone has an unusual cough, they should go to the health facility for treatment,” she said.
Her outreach also covers skin diseases, elephantiasis and broader community health. She stressed that wellbeing is tied to proper nutrition and the ability of households to meet basic needs.
“It is important that everyone has at least three meals a day. A hungry man is an angry man,” she said. “If some are well-fed while others are hungry, there can be confusion and tension in the community.”
Pognaba Agamboka also condemned stigma against TB patients, urging residents to show empathy rather than ridicule.
“If you see your colleague suffering from a disease, you should not mock or laugh at them. Anyone can fall sick at any time. Instead of mockery, we should see how best we can help them,” she said.
Her work underscores the role of traditional leaders and community education in strengthening TB control and improving public health in the Bongo District.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1Mhz | Keziah Porepeya Nsoh | Bongo
