CARE-CHWs - Caring on the Frontlines: addressing safety, equity, and economic vulnerabilities of community health care workers in eastern DRC using a transdisciplinary approach

In the South Kivu province, Eastern DRC, Community Health Workers (CHWs) face significant challenges due to ongoing conflict, frequent epidemics, and a strained healthcare system. Their vital work is made even more difficult by issues related to safety, recognition, and inadequate pay.

Existing support structures are insufficient, and there is a lack of effective tools and strategies to address their safety and financial needs, particularly considering gender dynamics and violence. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving healthcare delivery in these vulnerable communities.

This project aims to enhance the safety, recognition, and remuneration of CHWs in South Kivu by investigating the types and frequency of violence against CHWs and the economic impact of their unpaid work, and subsequently developing a ‘CHW Safety Toolkit,’ which will incorporate ICRC violence de-escalation training and other relevant strategies identified through participatory design sessions. The toolkit will be refined with input from CHWs, especially women, to ensure it addresses their real-time needs and tackles workplace violence.

The project will provide actionable insights and tools to improve the safety and fair remuneration of CHWs, aligning with global goals such as ending poverty and achieving gender equality.

Contact