Providing Routine Medications, Education, and Psychosocial Support to Children Living with Sickle Cell Disease in Yaoundé.

Living a healthy life, reducing sickle cell crisis, and lowering the risk of complications require consistent care and healthy habits from an early age for people living with sickle cell disease (SCD). Essential practices include drinking enough water to stay hydrated, taking routine medications such as folic acid and penicillin, eating nutritious meals, and avoiding stressful situations. While these habits may seem simple, they can be challenging, especially in communities where poverty limits access to care and resources.

In an effort to ease this burden, Hope Cell Foundation (HCF) and its partners reached out to over 150 children living with sickle cell disease with free routine medications, including folic acid and penicillin. This initiative was part of the Care Before Crisis Sickle Cell Awareness Campaign, held in Yaoundé on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

The event also featured educational talks and interactive sessions led by health professionals and community advocates. Dr. Sulem Ingrid, a hematologist in training, explained the medical realities of sickle cell disease and emphasized the importance of early and consistent care. Dr. Minette Akame Mbange, a pediatrician, guided parents on daily management, warning signs, and when to seek urgent medical attention.

The campaign also included powerful personal testimonies and psychosocial guidance. Zih Aisatou Nche épouse Ngang, a parent of two children living with sickle cell disease, shared her journey of resilience, confronting stigma, and the emotional challenges of caregiving. Prof. Claude Désiré Noumbissie, a mental health expert, addressed the psychological burden of SCD and highlighted the importance of emotional support for both children and caregivers.

In addition to medical support, the outreach aimed to nurture the children’s education and sense of inclusion. Beneficiaries from nursery and primary schools received children’s books and writing materials from COSMOS Educational Press Ltd., thoughtful gifts designed to help children feel valued and included, especially in the face of social stigma.

Hope Cell Foundation expressed heartfelt gratitude to all its partners, donors, and supporters. Special thanks were given to volunteers, Etoug-Ebe Baptist Hospital, CRTV, CRTV News, The Guardian Post, and ANG Reels, whose commitment makes this work possible.

Sickle cell disease requires early, consistent care, emotional support, and community awareness to reduce crises and improve quality of life. By combining education, medical support, and psychosocial guidance, initiatives like the Care Before Crisis campaign help children living with sickle cell disease feel valued, empowered, and supported.