Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)

Assessment of risk communication and community engagement interventions during the Marburg virus disease outbreak in Kagera region, Northwestern Tanzania

In March 2023, Tanzania faced its first Marburg virus outbreak, with a high fatality rate. To raise awareness, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) approach was launched. A survey in May 2023 showed that most people in the affected areas were aware of the disease, with 82% receiving information from Community Health Workers. The majority were satisfied with … [Read more...] about Assessment of risk communication and community engagement interventions during the Marburg virus disease outbreak in Kagera region, Northwestern Tanzania

This study explored how community-based workers support orphans and vulnerable children in South Africa's Vhembe district. Focus group discussions revealed that these workers provide various psychosocial interventions, including physical and educational support, psycho-education, social activities, caregiver involvement, and referrals to professionals. However, community-based … [Read more...] about Approaches for psychosocial support towards orphans and vulnerable children by community-based workers in the Vhembe district, South Africa

This study assessed the health and nutrition literacy of community health workers (CHWs) in rural and urban Tanzania. Results showed that CHWs in rural areas had lower literacy levels compared to those in urban areas. Factors like age, area of residence, supervision frequency, and time spent on CHW activities influenced their literacy. There was also a strong link between … [Read more...] about Health and Nutrition Literacy among Community Health Workers in Rural and Urban Tanzania: A Comparative Study

This study tested if SMS reminders could improve malaria prevention among pregnant women in Busia County, Kenya. From September 2023 to February 2024, 156 women were randomized into two groups: one received SMS reminders about using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and taking preventive malaria medication (IPTp), while the other did not. ITN use was already high at the start, so … [Read more...] about Can SMS reminders improve utilization of malaria prevention strategies among pregnant women in Busia County?

This study examined community acceptance of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) as childbirth care providers in Ethiopia, finding that 58.63% of pregnant women believed their community accepted TBAs for deliveries. Factors like primary education and plans for more children increased this acceptance, while higher household income, specific regions, and certain religious … [Read more...] about Perceived community acceptance on traditional birth attendants assisted childbirth care and associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia