The bi-annual stakeholders engagement organized by Health Alert Sierra Leone (HASiL) in partnership with Marie Stopes International (MSI) and supported by the EU has emerged as a significant success across our three project districts: Western Rural, Port Loko, and Kambia. This initiative brought together a total of 210 participants, including healthcare providers, community leaders, local councils, and representatives from civil society organizations. By fostering an environment of open dialogue, we collaboratively address community health challenges and enhance the overall effectiveness of our initiatives.
A key achievement of these engagements is the focused discussions around sexual and reproductive health services, particularly family planning. Participants actively identify and address barriers to access, such as stockouts of essential commodities and cultural resistance to family planning initiatives. This collaborative approach not only allows us to swiftly identify issues but also facilitates the development of actionable solutions tailored to the unique needs of each community.
Additionally, these meetings have strengthened relationships among stakeholders, fostering trust and shared responsibility in tackling health disparities. Regular engagement ensures that all voices are heard, especially those of marginalized groups, enabling us to advocate for inclusive policies and services that benefit everyone.
The valuable feedback gathered during these sessions directly informs our future health programs and initiatives, ensuring they remain responsive and relevant to the needs of adolescents. Ultimately, the bi-annual stakeholders engagement stands as a vital success of HASiL’s Youth4Health project, promoting health equity and significantly improving the overall health and well-being of youth in Western Rural, Port Loko, and Kambia districts. This collaborative effort not only enhances community resilience but also empowers young individuals to take charge of their health and future.
4o mini