Innovation for scale : enhancing Ethiopia"s health extension package in the Southern Nations and Nationalities People"s Region (SNNPR) Shebedino and Lanfero Woredas : Cooperative Agreement No.: GHS-A-00-07-00023, 1 October 2007-30 September 2012 : report of the final evaluation

The project was implemented in the SNNPR in the districts of Shebedino (Sidama Zone) and Lanfero (Silti Zone) to reach 69,491 children ages 0-59 months of age; and 87,496 women of reproductive age (WRA). The overall goal of the project was to enhance the government iCCM strategy in order to contribute to reduced childhood mortality, with a strategic objective to increase use of key childhood services and behaviors. In general, the project was successful in implementing all pillars of IMNCI, including: (1) clinical IMNCI training of HC staff, and HEWs in HPs; (2) provision of supervision and supplies for IMNCI; and (3) training and support to vCHWs and others to improve family practices through c-IMNCI. The project also successfully operationalized zinc and pneumonia treatment for childhood diarrhea and pneumonia respectively at HCs and HPs. The treatment of diarrhea with zinc, and pneumonia with antibiotics, was the first at scale in Ethiopia, resulting in the project contributing to operationalizing the national policy. These achievements were accomplished as a result of a comprehensive strategy with strong partnership and collaboration with local health authorities in project implementation. However, main gaps existed in care for newborn babies, both in terms of care practices at home and care seeking, and care for sick newborn babies; each of which were low. (Excerpt, modified)