Twende
About TWENDE: A Community-Led Healthcare Financial Initiative
TWENDE, which stands for Tweragurize Na Dollar Emwe (Let's Buy Health with One Dollar), is a community-based healthcare financial organization (CBO) in the Sheema District of Uganda. Rooted in the philosophy of Obuntu—the belief in humanity towards others—TWENDE was established to combat the catastrophic financial burden of managing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes and hypertension. This initiative, part of the Health of a Population in Epidemiological Transition - Uganda (HOPIET-UG) programme, leverages community solidarity to ensure no one is left behind due to the cost of care.
Our VisionOur Core Purpose and Objectives
TWENDE is a not-for-profit organization serving the residents of Sheema District by facilitating access to essential health services for NCDs. Our main objective is to improve the quality of life and well-being within the community by:
- Financial Risk Pooling: We are raising funds to establish a robust financial foundation. Our goal is to collect and bank One Million United States Dollars in a fixed-deposit account at MUHAME SACCO for a period of five years. The profits generated from this investment will be used to fund our healthcare initiatives.
- A Holistic Healthcare Pathway: The profits will be used to support a comprehensive and integrated healthcare system, including:
- Prevention and Education: Conducting educational campaigns to raise awareness about NCDs.
- Early Detection: Implementing community-wide screening programs for early diagnosis.
- Effective Management: Strengthening local health centers (HC III, HC IV, and the District Hospital) to provide effective and efficient NCD management.
- Complication Management: Providing care to manage complications arising from NCDs.
- Improved Referral Chain: Enhancing the referral system to higher medical centers for specialized treatment.
Membership and Governance
Membership in TWENDE is open to all residents of Sheema District, aged 18 and above, who have resided there for at least six months and pay an annual membership fee of UGX 5,000. This small contribution ensures that members have a voice and a stake in the organization's success. Members are entitled to participate in and vote at general meetings, as well as elect or be elected to the Governing Body.
The organization is managed by a Governing Body (the Board) composed of ten members with diverse expertise, including medical professionals, community health advocates, development representatives, and business leaders. This ensures a well-rounded approach to governance, combining medical knowledge with financial acumen and community insight. The Board meets monthly and is responsible for setting the strategic direction, overseeing operations, and managing the organization's finances transparently and accountably.
The Board meets monthly and is responsible for setting the strategic direction, overseeing operations, and managing the organization's finances transparently and accountably.
Our Vision for the Future
We envision a future where the people of Sheema District and surrounding communities are empowered to manage their health proactively, free from the fear of catastrophic medical expenses. By pooling our resources and acting with Obuntu, TWENDE is building a sustainable model of community healthcare that can be a beacon for other regions. Your contribution, no matter how small, is a vital step toward a healthier, more resilient community.
