"We have never been asked for our opinion"

Mr. Moustapha - This project is the first of its kind in this part of the country. "This is the first time that we can express our opinion about our health," the participants told me. Communities can play a leading role in the development of their health by identifying health problems, participating with the necessary financial and human resources, and taking greater responsibility. The community should not feel excluded from managing their own health.
Dr. Ahmat - By supporting communities in this process, they are empowered, especially in terms of their rights and responsibilities to the authorities. This support gives them the opportunity to take matters into their own hands. Ultimately, the project aims to give individuals more control over their own health.

Dr. Ahmat - It is an important planning tool, because it takes into account the real problems of the community. But if it is poorly prepared or carried out, misunderstandings or conflicts between caregivers and the villagers can occur.
Mr. Moustapha - The approach helps the community to analyze health problems in depth and also aims to strengthen knowledge and skills at the individual and group levels. Access to and use of health services is improved as a result. The disadvantage is that sometimes disagreements arise between beneficiaries and health workers. After they have understood the functioning of the health system, villagers ask more questions and demand accountability, which leads to frustration here and there. 

Mr. Moustapha – If the community as a whole feels taken seriously, the process can make a difference. Women represent two out of the five focus groups – their needs will surely be heard.
Dr. Ahmat – The process gives women a voice. They can talk about their problems and share their experiences. In the beginning they were sometimes shy, but as soon as issues by which they were affected were discussed, they spoke up and began to tell their stories. 

Mr. Moustapha – Each and everyone needs to be included so that all can thrive. When the wife or the child is sick, the husband suffers as well – and vice versa. As traditional head of the family, the man is the first person in Chad to be called in case of illness. He remains an important part of the puzzle.
Dr. Ahmat – All groups are important and everyone is involved one way or another, but for me, women are the center of attention in this change, and they need to take responsibility  und initiate progress.