The Importance of Non-Governmental Organizations in Response to the Corona Virus Pandemic in Rural Mozambique: A Case Study COVID IN RURAL MOZAMBIQUE
Main Article Content
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4405-1454
Patrick T. Panos, MSW, MPH, PhD
http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7617-7169
Abstract
Introduction/Importance: In response to the overwhelming public health demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, many communities were not served due to the shortage of medical supplies and access to healthcare, particularly in developing countries. Consequently, the World Health Organization (WHO) began an initiative to engage the "untapped resources" of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) /Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) working within various developing and underserved countries. In order to better prepare for future public health emergencies, it is critical to assess the experiences of CSOs/NGOs in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic in partnership with marginalized communities.
Objectives of Study: The primary research objectives of this study were (1) Document the challenges that the frontline NGO/community partnerships faced in responding to rural villages’ needs associated with COVID-19 within Mozambique, (2) Document the frontline NGO/ community partnership responses in addressing rural villages’ needs associated with COVID-19 in rural Mozambique.
Background: This case study examines the NGO Care-for-Life (CFL) within its partnership with rural villages in Mozambique in response to COVID-19. Care-for-Life is one of the few formally recognized NGOs in Mozambique that takes a holistic approach to community development in rural villages.
Methods: Data for this study was collected using qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews (26), focus group discussions (5), household surveys, and non-participation observation.
Results: Based on household surveys, villages with the CFL/community partnership experienced an approximate 4% increase in overall deaths during the pandemic, while surrounding villages without an NGO/ community partnership experienced an approximate 15% increase in overall deaths. The general findings strongly suggest that NGO/CSO community partnerships can have a significant impact on a community's ability to respond to a public health emergency.
Conclusions: The results of this case study suggest that the use of CSOs/NGOs during a crisis can enhance public health responses in emergencies such as pandemics.
Article Details
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