GHM Consulting: Uganda Community Health Extension Worker Program

GHM interview with Community

Health Extension Workers in Uganda

Magdeline Aagard and Julie Kemink traveled to the Mayuge district in Uganda in April at the request of the District Health Officer to assess the Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW) program in their district. The program began in 2016 and had an assessment in 2024 by USAID. This report served as a foundation for the evaluation conducted by GHM.

The findings indicated several strengths of the program, including a deep commitment from the staff and the community. Additionally, improved results in health care in the remote villages of the district including sanitation, prenatal care, and in-clinic deliveries of babies. Opportunities for improvement were identified and prioritized in collaboration with the District Health Officer. The primary area identified was a need for improved leadership skills of those leading the CHEWs. This includes providing motivation and non-monetary incentives as well as helping team members grow in their work.

GHM will collaborate with the District Health Officer in Mayuge District to develop and implement a training program for the clinic leaders who have responsibilities for the CHEWs. Virtual training is anticipated to begin this summer, followed by in-person training this fall or winter.