DRC-IHP Trip Report: Amelie Sow-Dia, June-August, 2011

The project is implemented by Management Sciences for Health (MSH) with International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Overseas Strategic Consulting (OSC) as sub-contractors. The project's overarching objective is to strengthen the health system in DRC through a people- and team-centered approach, focusing on four Intermediate Results: increased access to and availability of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services, improved quality of key family health care services, increased knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to MCH, and improved health outcomes. Behavior Change Communication (BCC) is a key component of the DRC-IHP, aiming to promote positive health behaviors and attitudes among the target population. The project's BCC strategy is designed to be integrated and overarching, with a 5-year Tuendeni-Kumpala BCC strategy that includes a running theme, branding, and a single call-to-action. During the trip from June to August 2011, Amelie Sow-Dia, a Behavior Change Communication consultant, provided support to the Senior BCC Advisor in developing a BCC strategy for IHP, exploring opportunities for mobile technology integration, and providing BCC training to IHP BCC staff. The trip objectives were met, and several accomplishments were achieved, including the development of an integrated BCC strategy, a set of communication materials for a malaria campaign, and a capacity building and training plan. The BCC strategy development workshop resulted in the design of an initial suite of BCC campaign materials and a capacity building and training plan. A study of mobile phone and phone-based communications campaign opportunities was also conducted. BCC training workshops were held for BCC staff, and recommendations on mobile phone and PBx communications campaign opportunities were provided. The trip report highlights the importance of integrating mobile phone technology within the IHP's Tuendeni-Kumpala BCC strategy, particularly in rural areas where the majority of the target audience resides. It is recommended that the upcoming malaria campaign be enhanced with text messaging targeting the secondary audience, the husband of the primary audience. Other possibilities include supporting current initiatives, such as the FemmesPlus HIV hotline, to increase counseling capacity and diversify it with other health themes. The report also emphasizes the need for collaboration and coordination among partners, including the Global Fund and the private sector, to support the Tuendeni-Kumpala steering committee and leverage opportunities for cost-sharing. The committee has infinite potential and should be supported at the IHP Senior management level to encourage leadership within the group.