Village Health Workers in Nigeria
Dressed in bright green vests and head scarfs, huddled in groups in the sunny alcove of Bage Ward Primary Health Clinic, a group of Village Health Workers (VHWs) pour over their data.
VHWs are volunteers from the community who want to help other women learn how to take care of themselves and their children, and - ultimately - lead healthier lives.
These VHWs were recruited by the Society for Family Health (SFH) with funding from the Gates Foundation. To promote synergy and improve the sustainability of activities at the community level, VHWs now partner directly with the Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency, who will continue to support and pay VHW stipends and monitor their activities.
VHWs work closely with SAQIP to conduct maternal and child health education sessions with Mother’s Groups. SFH also supports VHWs to conduct home visits, sensitize women on the danger signs during pregnancy, follow-up on patients and refer them for birth in nearby facilities.