DIVA’s Care Foundation, in partnership with DC Hospital, a modern, well-equipped medical facility located at Weija SCC has organised a community health screening exercise aimed at improving healthcare access and promoting mental health awareness among residents.
The outreach programme, held over the weekend, provided free screening for hepatitis, malaria, blood pressure, and general wellness checks. Medical staff from DC Hospital, supported by volunteers from the foundation, attended to more than 100 residents who turned up to take advantage of the initiative.
According to organisers, the screening formed part of a broader effort to encourage early detection of health conditions and to empower communities with accurate health information.
Speaking at the event, Team Lead of DIVA’s Care Foundation, Gloria Ahali, emphasised the organisation’s strong advocacy for mental health — particularly for women and children, whom she described as the most vulnerable yet most neglected when it comes to psychological well-being in the country.
She noted that the foundation’s long-term vision is to build a society where women and children have access to timely mental health support, community education, and intervention services. Through advocacy, outreach programmes, and specialised support initiatives, the foundation aims to reduce stigma around mental health while ensuring that affected individuals receive the help they need.
“Our focus is on creating awareness, educating families, and supporting women and children who are struggling with mental health challenges,” Madam Ahali explained. “Mental health has been sidelined for far too long, and we believe that empowering communities starts with prioritising emotional and psychological well-being.”
She used the platform to call on public institutions, private organisations, NGOs, and community groups to collaborate with DIVA’s Care Foundation in expanding its programmes. She stressed that partnerships are essential to sustaining long-term interventions and reaching underserved populations across the country.
Residents who participated in the exercise expressed deep appreciation to both DIVA’s Care Foundation and DC Hospital for organising the initiative. Many said the screening offered them insights into their health status and provided timely guidance, especially for those who have limited access to medical services.
Some residents added that the mental health education session that accompanied the screening opened their eyes to issues they had previously overlooked, including stress, family pressures, trauma, and the emotional needs of children.
Organisers say the success of the exercise has strengthened their resolve to roll out similar programmes in other communities as part of an ongoing mission to promote holistic health and well-being.
DIVA’s Care Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to providing continued support, with future activities expected to focus even more on mental health awareness, advocacy, and collaboration with health institutions across the country.
