Citizen Voice and Action births a New Maternity Annex at Katoba Rural Health Post

Citizen Voice and Action (CVA) is a transformative approach that empowers communities to actively participate in their development, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability. Through the CVA model, community members identify their pressing issues, engage with duty bearers such as government officials and service providers, and work collaboratively to find sustainable solutions. This process ensures that development efforts are community-driven, lasting, and truly responsive to local needs.

In Katoba, the CVA group was established in 2018 with 18 dedicated members. The group is inclusive, identifying vulnerable community members and ensuring their voices are heard. They work closely with government authorities, understanding that sustainable change requires joint effort. 

Dennis Chulu, the CVA Chairperson, emphasizes the importance of community involvement: “Our work is about giving people a voice and making sure their concerns are heard and acted upon. When the community owns these projects, they are more likely to be maintained and to succeed long-term.” He further states, “When communities come together and speak up, they drive their own development. That’s the real power of CVA—creating ownership and ensuring sustainability.” His leadership has been instrumental in motivating the group and fostering a sense of collective responsibility.

Through capacity building, the group has been monitoring standards in public schools and health centres. They have identified gaps, such as inadequate facilities, and have actively engaged with district officials to address these issues. Their advocacy led to the construction of a teachers’ house and the lobbying for two semi-detached houses for health staff. Currently, they are supporting the construction of a maternity annex funded under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Thanks to their advocacy, the number of staff housing units has increased from 2 to 9, significantly improving health service delivery in the area.

The community’s efforts also extended to infrastructure projects. They raised K11,000 towards building a Mothers’ Waiting Shelter, which is now under construction by the SDA Woodlands Centre, with the community’s contribution playing a vital role. Additionally, World Vision’s support in providing clean water to health facilities has improved hygiene and health outcomes at the Katoba Rural Health Post. 

Angela Mwenje, a registered midwife at the health post, expressed her appreciation: “I want to thank the CVA group for their dedication and hard work in improving our community, especially here at the Katoba Rural Health Post. Their advocacy has helped us get better facilities and resources, which means so much to us and the mothers and children we serve.” She emphasizes that the community’s involvement has made a real difference in health service quality and accessibility.

The CVA group also prioritises children’s safety and education. They actively encourage parents to send their children back to school, especially those who have dropped out. As a result, they have successfully helped bring 77 children back to school, with two expected to complete this year. Their advocacy and community mobilization have created a safer and more supportive environment for children’s growth.

A message of appreciation from Angela Mwenje captures the community’s gratitude: “I want to sincerely thank the CVA group for their relentless efforts. Your work at the Katoba Rural Health Post has brought hope and improved services for many families. We truly value your commitment to making our community healthier and stronger.”

The regional leader praised the CVA group for their dedication, calling their work “wonderful and inspiring.” Their collective efforts have contributed to the construction of housing units worth nearly two million kwacha, demonstrating the community’s resilience and proactive spirit.

In conclusion, the CVA model has proven to be a powerful tool for community empowerment in Katoba. With strong leadership from Dennis Chulu and heartfelt appreciation from Angela Mwenje, the community continues to make strides towards a healthier, more inclusive, and self-reliant future. Their story exemplifies how community voice, when amplified and harnessed, can lead to meaningful and lasting change.