By Burnett Munthali
The Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN) has emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of responsibility among communities to improve health systems.
The organization believes that closing gaps in health service delivery requires active participation from the people, especially in rural areas.
Kumbesi Gomile, a Project Officer at MHEN, stresses the need to empower people in hard-to-reach areas to advocate for their health needs to the government.
Gomile further explains that MHEN is raising awareness about health services through its Zero-Dose Children and Strengthening Routine Immunization project.
Speaking during a meeting with Chigude and Kabungwe Mother Care Groups, Mzimba North EPI Coordinator George Nundwe emphasized that advocacy creates a sense of ownership when health services are implemented.
Gertrude Muyaba and Modestor Phiri, chairpersons of the Chigude and Kabungwe MCGs, shared success stories from their communities.
They revealed that their advocacy efforts led to the provision of vaccine refrigerators, the deployment of a Health Surveillance Assistant, and the construction and completion of local health centers.
