In response to the mpox outbreak declared a health emergency in 2024, Africa CDC and WHO led a coordinated effort across Africa with strong support from governments and global partners. A key part of the response was deploying thousands of community health workers (CHWs) in high-risk areas to support case tracking, vaccination, and public education. While major progress was … [Read more...] about Community health workers: A key to halting Africa’s mpox outbreak
Editorial
Community Health Workers
Community health workers (CHWs) are trusted caregivers from the communities they serve. They help fill health care gaps and support people beyond clinic walls. Despite their important role, CHWs often face challenges like low pay, safety concerns, discrimination, and lack of support. Anthropologists have studied these problems and offered ideas to improve CHWs' working … [Read more...] about Community Health Workers
Moving Towards a South African NHI System of Excellence: Recommendations Based on the Insider Perspectives of CHWs as Key Role-Players
South Africa’s government is improving primary health care through a new plan supported by National Health Insurance (NHI), with Community Health Workers (CHWs) playing a key role. This article shares the views of 31 CHWs from an NHI pilot district and gives suggestions to improve the program. These include having clear team leaders, providing regular training, keeping records … [Read more...] about Moving Towards a South African NHI System of Excellence: Recommendations Based on the Insider Perspectives of CHWs as Key Role-Players
Critical roles of community health workers in combating stunting in low and middle-income countries
Stunting remains a major health problem in low- and middle-income countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, affecting millions of children under five. It leads to poor physical growth, learning difficulties, and reduced productivity later in life. Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a key role in fighting stunting by educating families, promoting good … [Read more...] about Critical roles of community health workers in combating stunting in low and middle-income countries
Beyond Doctors and Hospitals: Nepal’s Female Community Health Volunteer Model -A New Paradigm for Global Health
In Nepal, Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs), (local women chosen by their communities), play a key role in delivering healthcare and education, especially in remote areas. Working closely with women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs), they help improve health by sharing knowledge, connecting people to services, and supporting community-led action. This teamwork is an example … [Read more...] about Beyond Doctors and Hospitals: Nepal’s Female Community Health Volunteer Model -A New Paradigm for Global Health
