Establishing and sustaining women-led vector control groups: community perspectives from Misungwi and Ilemela districts, Mwanza, Tanzania.

BACKGROUND

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs), specifically mosquito-borne diseases, are widespread in most sub-Saharan Africa countries. These diseases place significant strain on public health systems across the region. Community engagement has long been recognized as a key component of public health interventions. Since the Alma-Ata Declaration in 1978, efforts have been made to involve communities in healthcare programmes. Strengthening the community engagement strategies is essential for the success of malaria control and other mosquito-borne diseases. Women are key change agents in the efforts to combat VBDs. Involving them in the VBDs control and management efforts increases the levels of community acceptance and compliance. This qualitative study employed in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to explore community perspectives on establishing and sustaining women-led vector control groups. Data were collected from community members. Understanding community support for women's involvement in vector control is key to designing effective and sustainable programmes. This study aimed to assess the community perspectives and support for establishing women groups working in vector control at community level.

RESULTS

The study findings revealed that many of the respondents had a positive perception towards and accepted the idea of establishing and sustaining the 'women in vector control' groups at the community level. Most respondents agreed that these groups of women would help educate other community members on the importance of keeping their environment clean. They pointed out that women have a unique ability to pass such information passionately and persuasively to other people. A few respondents, however, were sceptical of this initiative. They believed that women occupy a subordinate social position in society-with little or no privilege and authority-thus making it hard for them to participate in the public activities. Most respondents also indicated that the community would support and sustain this group of women through provision of incentives.

CONCLUSION

Communities accept and support the idea of establishing and sustaining 'women champions in vector control' groups to eliminate VBDs. The study highlights the potential of involving women in vector control efforts as a community-driven strategy to improve public health, with strong support for the initiative and recognition of women's effectiveness in health education.