Bangui, Central African Republic – 11-14 November 2024
The Health Development and Partnerships for Africa and the Caribbean (HeDPAC), led by CEO Haileyesus Getahun, has completed a critical mission in the Central African Republic (CAR). The mission focused on supporting the government in strengthening community health programs through professionalization, institutionalization, and inter-ministerial collaboration.
The delegation met with His Excellency Dr. Pierre Somse, Minister of Health, who reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to advancing the country’s Community Health Program (CHP). Minister Somse emphasized the Ministry of Health’s strategy to integrate CHP into primary healthcare systems while promoting strong community engagement and the vital role of community leaders in sustaining health initiatives.
A Shared Vision for Community Health Worker Empowerment
HeDPAC’s delegation also met with His Excellency Marcel Djimassé, Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reforms. Minister Djimassé outlined his vision for recognizing and enhancing the contributions of community health workers (CHWs) by including them within the civil service framework. This approach aims to ensure the continuous professional development and capacity building of CHWs.
This vision is fully aligned with HeDPAC’s mission to strengthen primary healthcare systems by professionalizing and institutionalizing CHWs. The organization commended the Ministry’s reforms, emphasizing their potential to create resilient, country-led health programs.
Cross-Sectoral Commitment to Health and Development
On the final day of the mission, the delegation engaged with key government leaders, including H.E. Marie Michelle Mouanga, Minister of Labor, Employment, Social Protection, and Professional Training, and H.E. Bruno Yapande, Minister of Territorial Administration, Decentralization, and Local Development. Both ministers expressed their strong belief in the transformative potential of CHWs in improving health outcomes and fostering community well-being.
The ministers highlighted the importance of CHWs as a sustainable, home-grown solution to address pressing health challenges such as high maternal and infant mortality. They also underscored how professionalizing CHWs not only contributes to better health outcomes but also promotes youth and women’s employment, enhances social protection, and supports national development goals.
HeDPAC praised the government’s cross-sectoral collaboration and commitment to health system strengthening, which aligns with the global goal of Universal Health Coverage. As part of its continued efforts, HeDPAC will work alongside CAR’s government to implement sustainable solutions tailored to the local context.
By fostering strong partnerships and leveraging innovative strategies, HeDPAC and the Central African Republic aim to create a resilient and inclusive community health system that meets the unique needs of its people.