The dynamics of Community and NGO Partnership: Primary Health Care Experiences in Rural Mali

Keywords

primary health care, Mali, case study, non-governmental organizations

Abstract

Utilizing ethnographic research methods, this case study examines the experiences of an NGO-sponsored health care program in rural Mali. The findings indicate that while, in principle, the organization operates from an alternative development base, it has been unable to decentralize the decision-making process and facilitate community dialogue and participation. Numerous problems resulted, including superficial forms of local participation, lack of community ownership, non-remuneration of health workers and midwives, inadequate training, and ultimately, limited program gains. The analyses highlight the complexity and dynamic nature of health program implementation in a developing context, and suggest several factors important to project success. These include drawing on diverse local perspectives, promoting broad-based participation, and providing culturally appropriate ways to include all community members, particularly women.

Original Publication Citation

The dynamics of community and NGO partnership: primary health care experiences in rural Mali, by Yodit Solomon, Bonnie Ballif-Spanvill, Carol Ward, Addie Fuhriman and Kacey Widdision-Jones, Promotion and Education, Volume XV, No. 4 (2008): 32-37

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2008-12-01

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5647

Publisher

Global Health Promotion

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Sociology

University Standing at Time of Publication

Associate Professor

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