On November 8, 2023, a meeting was held at Sarova Imperial Hotel in Kisumu County to discuss and implement community-led monitoring using the I-Monitor app. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including:
- Peer monitors
- Social mobilization champions
- Domestic resource mobilization champions
- Citizen advocates
- Super users
The initiative is funded by the Global Fund to combat HIV, TB, and Malaria, with Amref as the principal recipient and Our Lady of Perpetual Help as the sub-recipient. The overarching goal of this project is to enhance the quality of services provided to communities.
Community-Led Monitoring and Its Importance
Community-led monitoring is a participatory approach to collecting, analyzing, and using data to improve socioeconomic conditions and increase the accountability of local leaders. It provides a platform for community members to have a say in decisions that affect them directly, ensuring that their development projects are effective and efficient.
Implementation of Community-Led Monitoring Mechanisms
Implementation of community-led monitoring mechanisms has been shown to improve service delivery at facility-level, health system-wide infrastructure, and health outcomes among recipients. Successful models are collaborative, continuous, systematic, and incorporate advocacy and community education.
Next Steps for the Nyabende Project
Following the meeting at Sarova Imperial Hotel, the next steps for the Nyabende project include:
- Training peer monitors and other stakeholders in the use of the I-Monitor app for community-led monitoring.
- Developing a monitoring plan that addresses the specific needs and challenges of the Kisumu County community.
- Establishing partnerships with local organizations and institutions to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the project.
- Regularly reviewing and adjusting the monitoring plan based on feedback from community members and other stakeholders.
By implementing these steps, the Nyabende project aims to enhance the quality of services provided to communities in Kisumu County and demonstrate the potential of community-led monitoring as a tool for improving health systems and promoting equitable access to services.
