Overview of the Assessment

A recent assessment conducted by the Africa CDC alongside the Public Health - Risk Communication and Community Engagement - Community of Practice for Africa (PH-RCCE-CoPA) has raised alarming concerns about the readiness of certain African countries to handle public health crises. The findings reveal significant inadequacies in risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) activities in Liberia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

With Africa grappling with over 100 outbreaks annually, a team of experts utilized the Africa CDC Disease Risk Ranking Matrix—a crucial tool for health emergency planning—to select these nations for evaluation. “RCCE stands as a crucial pillar under the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005, forming the bedrock of an effective public health response," stated Kelvin Ngugi Gichia, the leader of the Africa CDC assessment team.

Critical Areas for Improvement

The assessment highlighted a series of critical areas in need of improvement, including coordination of RCCE efforts, generation of evidence, establishment of risk communication systems, social listening, and management of infodemics.

Findings from Liberia

In Liberia—a country still recovering from past health crises—the team visited Grand Gedeh County, near the Côted'Ivoire border. Here, local health authorities reported significant challenges in social listening and rumor management. Chester Smith, Liberia’s RCCE focal person, emphasized, "Enhancing our risk communication and community engagement is vital for fostering public trust, essential for effective preparedness and response, particularly in boosting vaccine uptake."

Insights from Uganda

In Uganda, the findings revealed the indispensable role played by religious leaders in guiding communities during emergencies. Busuulwa Abdulwaha, a notable Muslim leader in the Ebola-stricken Kasanda region, stated, "Our community turns to us for guidance. Our role in fostering vaccine confidence and debunking myths is crucial."

Zimbabwe's Progress and Challenges

Zimbabwe's assessment showcased some best practices, such as utilizing Short Messaging Service (SMS) and WhatsApp for disseminating RCCE messages about water bills. However, gaps lingered in the digital systems and cross-border RCCE efforts. Chipo Chinamaringa, the RCCE focal point from the Ministry of Health and Child Care, noted, “Strengthening RCCE systems is vital not only during outbreaks but also in peacetime, ensuring that communities have access to timely and accurate information.”

Africa CDC's Commitment

In a bid to address these alarming gaps, Africa CDC has pledged to work closely with these member states, focusing on building robust RCCE systems through capacity-building initiatives and strategic collaborations. Gichia highlighted the importance of a grassroots approach, engaging local communities to ensure long-lasting progress.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the Africa CDC plans to extend its RCCE support to at least seven more countries by 2025, concentrating on training and enabling pivotal skills in risk communication and community engagement. “We aspire to institutionalize RCCE through a continental framework, establishing a benchmark for best practices among nations," added Gichia.

Conclusion

These assessments serve as a clarion call for member states to critically evaluate their readiness to face health emergencies. With robust, community-focused, and evidence-based strategies, Africa can significantly improve its health crisis responses and better safeguard public health in the future. Are our leaders listening? It’s time to act before the next outbreak strikes!