Recognizing and training community health workers

In remote areas, crisis settings, or in response to neglected health challenges, community health workers (CHWs)—peer educators, outreach agents, and trained facilitators—are often the first, and sometimes the only, link to prevention and care. In 2024, L’Initiative stepped up its support for their professionalization through skill- building, formal recognition of their role, and integration into national health policies. Ensuring quality care that meets local needs requires fully recognizing those who provide it every day.

CHWs: On the frontlines in fragile contexts

Community health workers (CHWs) operate close to the communities they serve and play a vital role in ensuring access to care—especially for the most vulnerable and marginalized populations. They are essential intermediaries in times of crisis, complementing the broader human resources for health, and are key drivers of more inclusive and resilient health systems. L’Initiative is committed to promoting greater recognition and value for their work on the ground.

Fighting malaria in cameroon through community collaboration

In Cameroon, malaria disproportionately affects the South-West and Littoral regions, where conflict has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes. In these areas, access to healthcare and malaria response efforts remain limited. Supported by L’Initiative, the operational research project Breaking Barriers is implementing several innovative strategies to combat the disease in these regions. These initiatives are built around a participatory approach that actively involves local communities.

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Incorporating gender considerations in pandemic response

The PasserElles program, led by Santé Sud in partnership with SOS Pairs Éducateurs, is being implemented in the three Mauritanian regions most affected by HIV/AIDS, which also face high rates of tuberculosis and malaria. Based on an integrated and gender-sensitive approach, the program aims to strengthen the quality of health services at all levels—from primary care to national referral—through the training of 60 community health workers and the skill enhancement of 664 health personnel.

Read the project brief