SPARK II partners, including JDPC, recently brought together key stakeholders to strengthen community participation and oversight in primary healthcare across Anambra State. The meeting gathered civil society organizations, community leaders, and local government representatives to address gaps in transparency, accountability, and service quality in primary healthcare facilities.
Participants emphasized the important role of Ward Development Committees (WDCs) and Community Development Committees (CDCs) in monitoring healthcare operations. These committees help ensure that health facilities operate effectively, staff remain accountable, and resources, including the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), are used properly to benefit communities.
A key focus of the discussions was maternal and child healthcare. Stakeholders highlighted that active community oversight can significantly improve health outcomes for mothers and children, stressing the need for local health facilities to be equipped and staffed to provide timely, quality care.
The forum also revealed gaps in PHC governance, such as irregular monitoring of funds, limited reporting mechanisms, and insufficient community engagement. Stakeholders called for better monitoring systems, regular audits, and structured feedback processes that allow communities to take an active role in decision-making and track service delivery outcomes.
Collaboration was another major point, with participants underlining the need for strong partnerships between civil society organizations, local councils, and community committees. By working together, they can ensure that healthcare policies are effectively implemented, challenges are addressed quickly, and citizens have access to quality primary healthcare services.
JDPC and other SPARK II partners reaffirmed their commitment to promoting good governance and improving service delivery in primary healthcare across Anambra State. They emphasized that sustainable healthcare improvements can only be achieved when communities are empowered to participate fully in oversight and decision-making.
By strengthening community oversight, promoting accountability, and encouraging active collaboration, SPARK II partners are helping to transform primary healthcare delivery in Anambra. Their efforts aim to ensure that all citizens, especially mothers and children, have access to quality healthcare services.
