Nairobi: Nampaiyo Koriata, a dedicated fistula envoy, has been diligently combating the condition among Maa women for the past decade. The mother of five, who is also a grandmother, was motivated to raise awareness about fistula after suffering from the condition herself during high school, which ultimately led her to drop out.
According to Kenya News Agency, Koriata's personal experience with fistula inspired her to establish the 'Nampaiyo Koriata Fistula Trust.' Through this organization, she has successfully assisted over 500 women by connecting them with appropriate hospitals for treatment. Her journey began after experiencing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) at the age of 12, a common practice among Maasai girls. By 15, she gave birth to her first child and developed a fistula, a condition she initially kept hidden while striving to continue her education.
Koriata recounts the physical and emotional challenges she faced, including the constant need to wear pads and the embarrassment of having her uniform soaked in urine and feces. Her condition led to isolation and a significant impact on her self-esteem. Despite these obstacles, she held onto hope that one day she would be free from the stigma.
Her condition persisted, leading her to drop out of school and have a second child, mistakenly believing that marriage and pregnancy would resolve her issues. It wasn't until 2015 that she sought medical intervention at Kenya National Hospital (KNH), where surgery successfully cured her condition. This experience fueled her determination to help others suffering from fistula.
Koriata's organization operates out of Ololulunga trading center, where she educates and supports women dealing with fistula. She emphasizes the importance of seeking medical help and denounces harmful cultural practices such as FGM, early marriage, and teenage pregnancies, which can lead to fistula.
Elizabeth Sankei, chairlady of the Entepesi Naleng'u women group, acknowledges the impact of Koriata's work, noting how it has changed perceptions about fistula. Women who once believed the condition was incurable now understand that treatment is possible, and many have benefited from Koriata's foundation.
The organization not only addresses health issues but also empowers women through income-generating activities, enhancing their economic autonomy. Joan Sankei, a program beneficiary, shares her transformation into a fistula ambassador after successful treatment, underscoring the significance of Koriata's mission.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, obstetric fistula is characterized by an abnormal opening between a woman's vagina and bladder and/or rectum, resulting in continuous leakage of urine and/or feces. The condition has a strong association with stillbirth, with approximately 90% of affected women delivering stillborn babies.