CHAs Empower Communities to Reduce Maternal and Neonatal Deaths
Community Health Assistants (CHAs) are proving instrumental in enhancing maternal and newborn health outcomes across Zambia by bridging the gap between communities and the formal healthcare system.
These trained health workers provide essential health education, promote antenatal and postnatal care, and support families throughout pregnancy and childbirth. By understanding local customs and barriers, CHAs improve access to care and help reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.
CHAs identify pregnant women, track their pregnancies, and provide counselling to encourage facility-based deliveries and skilled birth attendance. They conduct home visits during the postnatal period, educating families on newborn care practices and recognising danger signs that require urgent medical attention.
At the community level, CHAs extend the reach of health services, particularly in underserved areas, while also collecting crucial health data to complement facility-based information systems. This data helps track maternal and newborn deaths and informs evidence-based interventions.
Recognising the importance of CHAs, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and UNICEF Zambia, is conducting refresher training for CHAs in all ten provinces. The initiative aims to strengthen their skills and ensure they continue delivering high-quality care.
By supporting CHAs, Zambia aims to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, improve health equity, and build a healthier future for all citizens.
