The camp is scheduled for December 7, 2024, at Mmokolodi. Haemophilia occurs when a person’s blood doesn't clot properly, causing bleeding to persist or fail to stop due to insufficient clotting factors. Addressing the media, the chairperson of the association, Nelly Monametsi, stated that the camp has been established to bridge the knowledge gap. She shared that since the inception of BIBDA and the start of their fight against this rare disease, their greatest challenge has been the lack of knowledge. Monametsi stressed that the knowledge gap isn't limited to patients, as even medical personnel sometimes lack sufficient understanding.
"We have decided to host a workshop as part of our ongoing fight against haemophilia. We have realised that many people, including professionals, are unaware of the disease because it is so rare," she said. To address this, Monametsi explained that they found it appropriate to host a camp focusing primarily on imparting knowledge. She emphasised that the camp won't only focus on bridging the knowledge gap but will also help combat stigma. "Haemophilia patients often face stigma, especially because people don't understand the disorder. This camp will give us a platform to fight that," Monametsi added. To ensure that people are sensitised about the condition, she stated that the camp will involve various stakeholders who are crucial in the fight against haemophilia. "At the camp, we will have our patients living with haemophilia, along with their parents or caregivers, to teach them how to manage the condition. Experts will also be present to educate us whilst we learn from the patients as well," Monametsi said. She acknowledged that the camp alone might not be enough to fully address the knowledge gap. She elaborated that people need to be educated about the condition from a young age and be as informed as they are about HIV/AIDS.
The camp is expected to be held for one day, running from 9am to 5pm.
