IN MEMORIUM: NORAH OTONDO (1978-2025)

It is with great sadness that we report the death of our dear colleague and friend, Norah Otondo.

Norah dedicated her life to the eradication of obstetric fistula. She gave her land, her time, her money and her love to helping women who had suffered with this condition. Most recently, she ran the Kenyan Quilts For Empowerment compound in Luanda, Kenya - with whom we partner. There, post-surgical survivors of obstetric fistula receive rehabilitation, support and education.

Additionally, Protect Your Sister Project’s educational kits are sewn at this compound by a group of women seamstresses who are survivors of obstetric fistula. Norah oversaw this project and we worked closely with her for many years.

When Norah was not teaching school or overseeing the programs for victims of obstetric fistula, she was also in charge of the care of many orphaned children who were the victims of sexual assault. Norah opened her home to these children and frequently paid for their schooling out of her own money.

Norah was from a very large family. She had a loyal passion for them and was always there when anyone in her family needed her. One of her sisters, Pamela, has decided that she will take over Norah’s role in caring for the many orphaned children. She will also oversee the program for the obstetric fistula survivors.

I was fortunate enough to meet Norah in person when I traveled to Kenya and Tanzania in 2022. At that time, Norah accompanied Christine Fox and me to help us speak to the rural villagers in Tanzania. Norah’s cultural knowledge, as well as her translation abilities were invaluable.  Throughout the time I was sick with Malaria, she was at my bedside. Norah was a joyous and caring person. She was a pleasure to know and spend time with. A very bright light has gone out with her passing. She will be deeply missed by all of us.

Joni Chenoweth, Director

Protect Your Sister Project