Impact Global Health Alliance Global fosters change through health in Kibera
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Kibera as one of the most densely populated slums in the world is a microcosm of the world’s most challenging health and development issues. For the past two years, Impact Global Health Alliance Global has partnered with Carolina for Kibera (CFK) and the Ronald McDonald House Charities to reduce child mortality from preventable diarrheal disease by creating a health system that is managed and owned by the community. As a subcontractor, Impact Global Health Alliance Global provides Technical Assistance in the form of capacity-building and training for staff in the Community-Based Impact-Oriented (CBIO) and Care Groups (CG) methodology.
Florence Amadi facilitates training
In September, Florence Amadi facilitated Training-of-Trainer sessions on the Care Group approach for nine CFK Community Health Workers and Program Managers.
| For the kids that played and laughed along the path, it is home! |
“Many of the participants who participated in the training grew up and still reside in Kibera.Although I did not get to hear from every health worker about growing up in the slum, I could see their stories through their smiles – stories of hope and not despair, and stories of how they would like to see Kibera a better place, with a resounding “can happen” attitude! For the kids that played and laughed along the path, it is home! As illustrated, my one week of interaction with the participants and community members was nothing less than enjoyable and inspiring!” says Amadi, reflecting on her trip.
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Building incrementally one at a time
“I was continually impressed by the cohesiveness and resilience portrayed by the community. At one point I asked
| “Change is best achieved when driven by those affected.” |
how the building material got to the three-story Tabitha Clinic. “A brick at a time!” was the answer from Salim Mohamed, Interim Executive Director and co-founder of Tabitha Clinic. Without an accessible road, the people of Kibera carried each brick, and piece of material with their hands and heads through the treacherous terrain!”
Community ownership
Yunus Mohamed, Project Officer for Community Outreach saw that the team was enthusiastic to implement the Care Group approach. Amadi felt that the commitment demonstrated by the team renewed her conviction in the importance and effectiveness of community-based healthcare. Most importantly, She believes that “Change is best achieved when driven by those affected”. Even with little resources, I see the CBIO+Care Group methodology as a fulcrum for promoting community participation in Kibera and other resource-poor communities around the world. As the holidays approach, this is the perfect time to pause and reflect on what we believe in, and the experiences that have inspired us throughout the year – indeed, throughout our lives!”
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For more information on Impact Global Health Alliance Global’s work in Kenya, contact Florence Amadi at (877) 510-4787 or [email protected]
