The Association for the Well-Being of Rural Communities and Development (ABC Development) has intensified community engagement and public health awareness activities in Kambia District as part of the Epidemic Control and Reinforcement of Health Services (ECRHS Phase III) project.
The activities aimed to improve reproductive health outcomes, strengthen epidemic preparedness systems, and promote community accountability in addressing prevailing public health challenges. The project is implemented under BMZ No: 201868512 and focuses on improving the overall health status of the population in Sierra Leone, with particular emphasis on reproductive health and epidemic control.
In Bamoi Luma on June 14, 2024, ABC Development conducted a community engagement session with chiefdom stakeholders to promote awareness and coordination around the Epidemic Preparedness Plan (EPP). The meeting brought together 20 participants, including representatives from local government, the police, fire services, and community leadership structures. Discussions identified critical concerns such as unregulated construction practices, poor waste disposal leading to blocked drainage systems, and the increasing number of deaths linked to Kush intake. Participants agreed on the need for stronger community sensitization on the dangers of Kush, enforcement of local bylaws, and enhanced monitoring of illegal activities.
Another community engagement meeting was held in Kapairoh on June 25, 2024, focusing on prevailing public health issues such as maternal deaths, adolescent health, measles, and immunization. The meeting, attended by 24 participants, highlighted challenges including unofficial charges for maternity services and negative attitudes toward Traditional Birth Attendants. Participants recommended that these issues be shared with the District Health Management Team, while also encouraging greater support from husbands for pregnant women and improved collaboration between health workers and communities.
As part of efforts to improve Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, ABC Development used radio jingles to increase awareness of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Family Planning. A total of 45 jingles were aired on Radio Kolenten FM 88.5 in Krio, Themne, Limba, and Susu, broadcast four times daily to reach diverse audiences across Kambia District.
The project also recorded progress in strengthening community structures through the formation of Village Savings and Loan Associations and the revitalization of Facility Management Committees. In addition, cascade training on the Community Score Card and Social Accountability Approach was completed, alongside the successful conduct of Community Score Card sessions to enhance dialogue between communities and health service providers.
No major implementation challenges were recorded during the reporting period. However, lessons learned indicated that negative attitudes among some health facility staff can discourage community members from accessing essential health services, highlighting the need for continued engagement and accountability mechanisms.
The ECRHS Phase III project is being implemented in several communities across Magbema Chiefdom, including Bamoi Luma, Rokupr, Masorie, Konta, Kambia, Makasa, Matham, Kapairoh, Maseleh, Koya I, and Koya II. The initiative seeks to sustain epidemic control systems, increase access to Sexual and Reproductive Health services, and enhance maternal and newborn care through the establishment of a functional Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care facility in Kambia District.
