Strengthening Community-Based Surveillance: Bangue Community Health Workers Trained to Better Detect Vaccine-Preventable Diseases
On November 25 and 26, 2025, the Bangue Health District conducted a major training workshop in the conference hall of La Providence Hospital in Kotto. The session brought together 10 Community Health Workers (CHWs), a traditional healer, district health officials, and the community-based partner Value Health Africa (District-level CSO).
The workshop was facilitated by the Littoral Regional EPI team, represented by the regional facilitator, with additional support from the regional CSO PROVARESSC.
Two Days of Intensive Capacity Building on District Health Priorities
Throughout the two-day workshop, participants were trained on essential components of community-based health surveillance, including:
- detection and reporting of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs) and Epidemic-Prone Diseases (EPDs);
- identification of suspected cases of AFP, Measles, Yellow Fever, and Neonatal Tetanus;
- active search for zero-dose children and those who are under-vaccinated;
- use of community monitoring and reporting tools;
- detection and appropriate referral of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases.
The participation of a traditional healer strengthened the inclusive, community-centered approach emphasized throughout the training.
A Collective Commitment to Improving Vaccination Coverage
The Bangue District Medical Officer commended the commitment of CHWs and community actors, highlighting their crucial role in early detection, disease prevention, and vaccination promotion.
With support from the Littoral EPI team, Value Health Africa, and PROVARESSC, the workshop represents a significant step forward in enhancing community-based surveillance and timely reporting of health alerts.
The Health District reaffirms its commitment to building a more vigilant, better-informed, and better-protected community.