The nodding syndrome, which mostly affects children under 15, was first officially reported in Pader in Acholi sub region in 2007. However, without any meaningful government response and intervention, it is only now that some light is being shed over the extent of the epidemic; which continues to baffle doctors and researchers. An estimated 3,800 children are affected by the disease and more than 2,000 have so far dropped out of school since the outbreak.The victims are also prone to accidents such as drowning and burning.The United States Centres for Disease Control says the cause, mode of spread and cure for the disease still remains a mystery. Patrick Anywar, 14, one of more than 3,000 children in Acholi region who are suffering from the nodding disease, sits in the dust outside his family home in Kitgum district. Image by: MICHELE SIBILONI / AFP Anywar lies curled up naked in the dust and away from the midday heat that can heat 35 degrees, as he struggles to look up at his younger brother and sister playing in front of the family home. Image by: MICHELE SIBILONI / AFP Victims attend a meeting with Members of Acholi Parliamentary Group recently. Courtesy Photo Community members who feel completely helpless ponder how best to assist this victim. Courtesy Photo Five of the twelve children of Mr Martin Ochen sit at the edge of their compound, as they wonder how long they have got to live. Courtesy Photo. Children suffering from nodding disease gather in Akoya-Lamin Omony village in Gulu district. James Akena / Reuters Okello Reagan, 11, a victim of the nodding disease, sits with his peers in Akoya-Lamin Omony village in Gulu district. James Akena / Reuters Food is Lamwaka’s worst tormentor. She can live with the pain, with the loneliness, with her ugly wounds, but not with food. Children affected by the disease are known to repel sights of food or its smell By A Website Design
Patrick Anywar
Patrick Anywar
Nodding Disease
Nodding Disease
Nodding Disease
Nodding Disease
Okello Reagan
Nancy Lamwaka