Community sensitization & mobilization activities in Chirundu, Zambia

Decide TB project conducted community sensitization & mobilization activities in communities surrounding the seven selected facilities in Chirundu district from December 1st to 13th, 2024.

Following the switch carried out in early September and the implementation of TDAs in the various health centers of Chirundu district, community mobilization activities were able to begin.

The purpose of these activities is to raise awareness about Childhood TB, address some of the common myths that prevent access to care and treatment for childhood TB as well as increasing the project visibility in the community and gain trust.

The main topics incorporated in the activities included general knowledge on childhood TB, the signs and symptoms of TB, the use of treatment decisions algorithms in diagnosing TB in children, how it is treated and discussion about the common myths and misconceptions about childhood TB in the communities.

Some meetings were held with community leaders such as church, market, school, nurse & neighborhood leaders, with the aim of relaying information within their communities. Other meetings were conducted directly with the community, taking advantage of mobilizing events such as Child Health Week, encouraging communities to visit health centers for vaccination and weight monitoring.

The activities were spearheaded by health promotion officers from Chirundu district health office supported by Senior Environmental Health Officer from Lusaka Provincial Health office and members of the Decide TB team.

Kapulina

Lusitu

Jamba

Sikongo

Hachipilika