Community Health Workers as Agents of Change: Lessons from South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa

Authors

  • Mushtaq Ahmed Department of Public Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan Author
  • Cameruddin W. Vellani Faculty of Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan Author
  • Laetitia Nyirazinyoye Department of Global Health, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71465/bhsr55

Keywords:

Community Health Workers, South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Health Systems, Maternal Health, Disease Prevention, Health Education, Health Policy

Abstract

Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between healthcare systems and underserved populations in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. This article examines the transformative impact of CHWs as agents of change in these regions, focusing on their contributions to maternal and child health, disease prevention, and health education. Drawing from case studies in Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and Mali, we analyze the strategies employed by CHWs, the challenges they face, and the outcomes achieved. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating CHWs into national health policies and providing them with adequate training, resources, and support to enhance their effectiveness.

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Published

2025-06-30