Kourittenga/health: The NGO Concern Worldwide, in partnership with the Koupela and Pouytenga health districts, organized a workshop in Koupela to review the third year of the "Laafi Beog Nere" project. The meeting aimed to assess the project's progress at the halfway point, build on achievements, identify remaining challenges, and formulate recommendations to improve the impact of health and community interventions for the benefit of the population.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the project is funded by the Irish government through Irish Aid for a period of five years. Implemented since 2023, the "Laafi Beog Nere" project aims to strengthen the health system and sustainably improve access to safe drinking water, sanitation, hygiene, nutrition, and health services in the Koupela and Pouytenga health districts.
Ivette Malgoubri/Oubda, a nurse at the Koumsilga Primary Health Center (CSPS) in the Baskoure district, noted that the project's support has significantly improved working conditions. She highlighted the provision of an incinerator, washing area, and a sluice box in the delivery room, which have enhanced patient care and reduced contamination risks. Additionally, solar equipment now allows for uninterrupted care day and night.
Linguiba Yameogo, a member of the Management Committee (COGES) of the Dassui Primary Health Center (CSPS) in the Dialgaye district, discussed the receipt of medical and technical equipment, including tools for weighing pregnant women and monitoring fetal heartbeats. He also mentioned the supply of products for treating acute malnutrition, which has reduced the need to refer patients to private centers.
Sana Aichatou, a weaver of traditional loincloths, shared the project's impact on her income-generating activities. She received financial assistance to purchase a weaving machine and materials, which has significantly supported her business.
Participants commended Concern Worldwide for the quality of the project's implementation and made several recommendations, including training for volunteers and increasing funds for essential medical equipment. Moctar Ilboudo, the High Commissioner of Kouritenga Province, praised the project's achievements and emphasized the active involvement of local health districts and services in its implementation.
The meeting also featured a presentation on the Emergency Territorial Development and Resilience Project (PUDTR).