- Makerere University, College of Health Sciences
Akello Okwir Martha is a dedicated social scientist and researcher currently serving as a Case Manager with GOALIE under the RRCU project in Lira. With a strong foundation in the social sciences and an evolving expertise in gender dynamics, Martha focuses on bridging the gap between clinical research and community health outcomes.
Academic Profile & Professional Experience
Martha holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Makerere University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Gender and Women Studies. In her professional role, she manages critical patient interactions and research logistics, including:
- Clinical Support: Facilitating participant enrollment, tracking, and follow-up for cardiovascular health research.
- Patient Engagement: Managing treatment appointment reminders and conducting wellness checks to monitor participant progress.
- Data & Ethics: Collecting field data for research databases and collaborating with clinical teams to ensure strict adherence to ethical standards and reporting timelines.
- Health Education: Providing essential RHD education and follow-up care reminders to study participants.
Research Focus: Women and RHD
Martha’s academic and professional interests converge on the health challenges faced by women in Northern Uganda. Her current research project, “Social Dimension and Access to RHD treatment among Women in Lira,” utilizes qualitative methodologies to uncover the social barriers influencing access to Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) care.
By conducting in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with patients, local leaders, and health workers, she seeks to capture the lived experiences of women with RHD. Through this work, Martha aims to:
- Increase RHD awareness within local communities.
- Strengthen data-driven decision-making processes for women’s health.
- Improve overall patient knowledge regarding RHD management.
Personal Interests
Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Martha is an avid traveler who enjoys making new friends, listening to gospel music, and shopping.
Research Topic – Social Dimensions and Access to Rheumatic Heart Disease Care Among Women in Lira District, Northern Uganda
