In a pivotal move to enhance local governance and resource allocation for health initiatives, Health Alert Sierra Leone recently conducted a one-day training on Domestic Resource Mobilization (DRM). This training targeted Local Council Finance Officers, District Program Officers (DPO), and Chief Administrators (CAs) from the Western Rural District, aiming to empower participants with the skills necessary to effectively mobilize domestic resources.
The training brought together a total of 30 participants who engaged actively throughout the session. With a focus on the importance of local revenue generation, the training covered various topics, including the definition of DRM, potential sources of revenue for the Western Rural District, and the challenges faced by councils in mobilizing resources. Participants learned about the advantages of effective DRM and how local councils can better support District Health Management Team (DHMT) activities, especially concerning pandemic preparedness.
Key sources of revenue discussed included market dues, beach fees, local taxes, and business registrations. The training highlighted challenges such as low compliance, weak sensitization, and political interference. Strategies for overcoming these hurdles were also explored, including the need for effective monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and policy reviews.
One of the most significant outcomes of this training is the commitment from councils to improve support for health facilities. Following the second round of DRM training held across the districts, councils began providing essential maintenance support, such as repairs to roofs and doors, as well as transport refunds for facility in-charges. This commitment reflects a growing understanding of the negative impacts of inadequate resource mobilization on health service delivery and emphasizes the importance of supporting last-mile distribution of critical health commodities, including family planning and reproductive health.
The training not only strengthened the participants’ capacity but also fostered a collaborative spirit among local councils. By empowering these stakeholders, Health Alert is helping to ensure that health initiatives receive the necessary funding and support to thrive. Ultimately, the DRM training is a crucial step toward sustainable health financing, enabling communities to take charge of their health outcomes and drive development in the district.
With continued efforts and collaboration, the goal of equitable health access for all can be achieved, paving the way for a healthier future in Sierra Leone.
