Moving Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Evidence into Policy in West Africa
This project brings together and supports the uptake of maternal and child health research evidence into policies and practices in West Africa. A part of the Innovating for Maternal and Child Health in Africa program, the project's impact will be felt at the national and regional levels in Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal.
Knowledge and action needed
While health systems research has informed improvements in maternal, newborn, and child health globally, there are critical knowledge and implementation gaps in West Africa. Preventable maternal, newborn, and child deaths, illnesses, and disabilities continue to burden countries in the region.
Partnerships to prevent death, illness, and disability
West African governments, the international community, and the Government of Canada are committed to improving maternal, newborn, and child health. The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) will work with implementation research teams (IRTs) to provide evidence for regional and national decision-makers.
Their work will complement the IRTs' efforts to integrate the evidence they generate into policies and practice. WAHO will foster research uptake in policies and practices by building decision-makers' understanding and promoting more collaboration with researchers.
Program focuses on maternal and child health
Innovating for Maternal and Child Health in Africa is a CA$36 million, seven-year research program that seeks to assist countries in resolving pressing health systems challenges to improve maternal, newborn, and child health. It is designed to support
-two independent policy organizations (consortia)
-approximately 20 implementation research teams.
This project supports the West African Health Organisation to be a pivotal health-policy research organization in West Africa. WAHO will leverage evidence generated by the IRTs and other researchers in its policy advisory work.
The program is a collaboration between Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and the International Development Research Centre.
Project ID
107892
Project Status
Completed
End Date
Duration
68 months
IDRC Officer
Nafissatou Diop
Total Funding
CA$ 2,554,453.00
Location
South of Sahara
Programs
Global Health
Innovating for Maternal and Child Health in Africa
Institution Country
Burkina Faso
Project Leader
Issiaka Sombie
Institution
Organisation Ouest Africaine de la Santé
Institution Website
Outputs
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Midterm workshop report : innovating for maternal and child health in Africa – IMCHA : 24 – 27 April 2017, Novotel Hotel, Dakar, Senegal Report
The workshop/conference sessions focused on evidence-based policies and capacity building, in order to prepare the ground for the Innovating for Maternal and Child Health in Africa (IMCHA) initiative. Topics included: knowledge transfer needs of policy makers and effective mechanisms; political engagement and strengthening interactions within the political sphere; adapting evidence and usability for policy makers; human resources capacity building; community health workers; project monitoring and evaluation; gender and equity, and training and support for Health Policy Research Organizations (HPROs). Author(s): Organisation Ouest Africaine de la Santé Language: English |
Rapport midterm workshop : innovating for maternal and child health in Africa - IMCHA : innovation pour la santé des mères et des enfants d’Afrique - ISMEA : 24 : 27 April 2017 Rapports
Author(s): Organisation Ouest Africaine de la Santé Language: French |
Atelier des parties prenantes en santé maternelle néonatale et infantile au Sénégal, 9 mars 2017, à Dakar, Niger Rapports
Author(s): Sombie, Issiaka, Johnson, Ermel Language: French |
Santé de la mère, du nouveau-né et de l’enfant en Afrique de l’Ouest : facteurs influençant du système de santé, prise en compte des aspects genre et équité : transfert des connaissances et utilisation des évidences Rapports
Author(s): Organisation Ouest Africaine de la Santé Language: French |
Communiqué issued at the end of a 3-day stakeholders’ meeting on the second edition of Nigeria research days for maternal newborn and child health with the theme “Integration of mental health into reproductive and community health : community… Report
This second workshop promoted by the West African Health Organization (WAHO) shared research findings from three IMCHA projects in Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health plus Nutrition (MNCAH+N) in Nigeria, and discussed the use of research in decision making in MNCH. It also enhanced the capacity of stakeholders to use the regional evidence-based policy making guidance tool. The report briefly outlines workshop activities along with concluding recommendations. Author(s): Taylor, Tinuola, James, Femi, Brooks, Godwin, Iloh, Kenechukwu Language: English |
Nigerian research days for MNCH : 1st edition, 11-13 July 2018, Abuja Nigeria Report
This one-page report provides a synopsis of the Abiye Program facet of the innovating for maternal, newborn and child health (IMNCH) project in Ondo State, Nigeria. The main objective of the research days is to move MNCH research into policy and practice by sharing findings among researchers and policy makers. Results of the project to this point (2018) show impact: between 2009 and 2016 there has been a reduction in maternal mortality from 545/100,000 women to 171/100,000; a reduction of over 70%. Author(s): WAHO Language: English |
Santé de la mère, du nouveau-né et de l’enfant en Afrique de l’Ouest : facteurs influençant du système de santé, prise en compte des aspects genre et équité, transfert des connaissances et utilisation des évidences : compte – rendu de l’atelier de… Rapports
Author(s): SOMBIE, Issiaka, JOHNSON, Ermel Language: French |
Santé de la mère, du nouveau-né et de l’enfant en Afrique de l’Ouest : déterminants liés aux systèmes de santé, aspects genre et equité, transfert-echange des connaissances : compte–rendu de l’atelier de validation du 18 au 20 février 2016, Hôtel les… Rapports
Author(s): Organisation Ouest Africaine de la Santé Language: French |
Knowledge translation training workshop for implementation research teams : moving maternal newborn and child health evidence into policy in West Africa (MEP) project : report of workshop at Bauchi State Nigeria Report
There is a need to strengthen the institutions and mechanisms that can more systematically promote interactions between researchers, policy-makers and others who can influence the uptake of research findings. In this report, the outcome of the first knowledge transfer (KT) training workshop is presented. The workshop package consisted of 15 modules and was designed to enhance the KT competence of Implementation Research Team (IRT) of Bauchi State Nigeria, which is supported by the IDRC/WAHO (West African Health Organization). Author(s): Uneke, Jesse Language: English |
Atelier de formation en recherche interventionnelle de l’équipe de recherche : 22 au 23 mars 2018, Ibadan, Nigeria Rapports
Author(s): Johnson, Ermel Language: French |
Finalisation du film documentaire sur la réunion internationale à mi-parcours de l’initiative : innovation pour les mères et enfants d’Afrique (ISMEA) : séminaire de recherche du projet de recherche Bajenu Gox Rapports
Author(s): Johnson, Ermel, Traore, Moctar Language: French |
Atelier national d'engagement des parties prenantes du projet : moving maternal newborn child evidence into policy Rapports
Author(s): Johnson, Ermel Language: French |
Atelier national d'engagement des parties prenantes du projet : moving maternal newborn child evidence into policy Rapports
Author(s): Lokossou, Virgil Language: French |
Knowledge translation training workshop for implementation research teams : report of workshop at Bauchi State Nigeria Report
The Knowledge Translation (KT) initiative developed a training programme, which was presented as a three-day training event for Implementation Research Teams (IRT) at the workshop in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Participants’ understanding of knowledge translation processes and strategies was improved over the course of the workshop. Participants identified health finance, health work force and leadership/governance as the most important policy areas. The training package is recommended not only for IRT teams, but any health research teams supported by IDRC and the West African Health Organisation (WAHO). Author(s): Uneke, Jesse Language: English |
Spanning maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) and health systems research boundaries : conducive and limiting health systems factors to improving MNCH outcomes in West Africa Article
Context influences effective implementation to scale of maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) interventions. As health systems exist within a global, national and sub-national context, this study explores health system factors conducive or limiting to MNCH policy and programme implementation and outcomes. Data collection involved a non-exhaustive review of grey and published literature, and 48 key informant interviews. Being able to accomplish unfinished Millennium Development Goals (4 and 5) in West Africa will require investing in interventions that are key to improving health systems, such as improved training in obstetrics, and women’s access to health facilities services. Author(s): Agyepong, Irene Akua, Kwamie, Aku, Frimpong, Edith, Defor, Selina, Ibrahim, Abdallah Language: English |
Promoting research to improve maternal, neonatal, infant and adolescent health in West Africa : the role of the West African Health Organisation Article
In this commentary, officials and other members of the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) examine the regional organisation’s role in promoting research as a tool for strengthening maternal and infant health in West Africa. While WAHO’s anchor point at the country level is the Ministry of Health, by integrating research into its work the organisation now works alongside other stakeholders including networks of research centres and universities. Author(s): Sombie, Issiaka, Bouwayé, Aissa, Mongbo, Yves, Keita, Namoudou, Lokossou, Virgil Language: English |
Moving MNCH evidence into policy in West Africa (MEP) : lessons learned Report
The presentation provides an overview of factors that relate to health equity, and the assessment of health equity, defined as “…the absence of unfair and avoidable health differences among social groups.” The objectives were to share lessons learned from Knowledge Translation Platforms in Africa, and to become familiar with key concepts and frameworks in Knowledge Transfer and Exchange; Evidence-Informed Health Policy-making; and Evidence-Based Health Practices. Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
Role of gender and equity in maternal, neonatal and child health programs in West Africa Report
The presentation highlights how a woman’s status in society can determine health, access to health care, and the health of her children. Power relations play a central role in how gender influences social norms, decision making, and access to resources. Drawing from the WHO’s Gender Responsiveness Assessment Scale, the presentation reflects on health systems and gender responsiveness in moving towards effective health care delivery in Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria and Senegal. Author(s): Larson, Elizabeth Language: English |
Innovation for mother and child health in Africa : moving MNCH evidence into policy in West Africa (MEP) : lessons learned Report
Implementation research is conducted within routine systems and real-life settings in order to improve health care and service delivery. The presentation provides an overview of the factors that are considered in implementation research towards resolving intervention issues in health equity and resource distribution. It provides references and links to case studies. Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
Knowledge translation platform Nigeria : success story and lessons learned Report
The knowledge translation platform (KTP) worked to enhance the evidence-to-policy-to-practice process by bridging the gap between researchers and policymakers. The presentation reviews the process of this successful program which involved growing the circle of contacts between researchers and government agencies and ministries. Many strategies are outlined here for building outreach capacity as well as impact, including a short-term training programme (3-month certificate course) in the University on health policy and health systems for policymakers. It was designed to enhance policymakers’ capacity for evidence informed policymaking. This KTP group can serve as a model program. Author(s): Uneke, Jesse Language: English |
A review of the process of knowledge transfer and use of evidence in reproductive and child health in Ghana Article
The findings of the study suggest that the health sector in Ghana has major strengths: strong knowledge production capacity, a positive environment for the promotion of evidence-informed policy; and opportunities: access to major donors who have the resources to fund good quality research, and access to both local and international networks for collaborative research. What remains a challenge is the absence of institution-wide mechanisms for collating research needs and communicating these to researchers, communicating research findings in forms that are friendly to policy-makers, and the inability to incorporate funding for research into the health sector budget. Author(s): Abekah-Nkrumah, Gordon, Issiaka, Sombié, Virgil, Lokossou, Ermel, Johnson Language: English |
Sub-regional efforts to support evidence-informed policymaking : the case of the West African Health Organization (WAHO) Report
The presentation outlines Knowledge Translation platforms and intervention frameworks. “Moving Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Evidence into Policy in West Africa” (MEP) is a flagship project prioritizing improvement of the production, dissemination and utilization of health information within the ECOWAS region, that includes mechanisms for utilization of knowledge, evidence and information towards better health policy and planning. Organizational capacity and health research capacity-building are key. Author(s): Verboom, Ben Language: English |
Assessment of policymakers’ engagement initiatives to promote evidence informed health policy making in Nigeria Article
This review assesses efforts and initiatives that have been undertaken to deliberately engage policymakers and other stakeholders in the health sector in Nigeria for the promotion of evidence-informed policymaking. The capacity constraints of policymakers to access, synthesize, adapt and utilize available research is one of the most challenging issues in low- and middle-income countries. The article emphasizes finding mechanisms to bridge the gaps needed to promote long term interactions between researchers/scientists and policy-makers. Author(s): Uneke, Chigozie Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Keita, Namoudou, Lokossou, Virgil, Johnson, Ermel, Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
Connaissances et capacités à utiliser les données probantes des parties prenantes de la santé maternelle et infantile au Burkina Faso Rapports
Author(s): Sombie, Issiaka, Zida, A., Johnson, E., Lokossou, V., Mongbo, Y., Bouwaye, A., Keita, N. Language: French |
Improved health outcomes for mother and children in West Africa through evidence informed decision making Brief
The “Innovating for Maternal and Child Health in Africa” initiative aims to reduce maternal, child and infant mortality through the promotion of the use of evidence in decision making. From this initiative, the project entitled “Moving Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Evidence into Policy (MEP)” was implemented by the West African Health Organisation (WAHO). The project is outlined in the newsletter. It works to improve the demand for, the production of, and the use of research findings in decision-making in maternal, neonatal and child health (MNCH) programs and policies in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region. Author(s): West African Health Organisation (WAHO) Language: English |
Analyse de la situation du transfert des connaissances et d'utilisation de l'évidence dans le domaine de la santé de la mere du nouveau né et de l'enfant au Mali Rapports
Author(s): Bagayoko, Cheick-Oumar Language: French |
Transfert-application des données probantes dans les politiques et programmes de santé maternelle et infantile en Afrique de l'Ouest : état des lieux Dossiers
Author(s): Sombie, Issiaka, Johnson, Ermel, Lokossou, Virgil, Keita, Namoudou, Mongbo, Yves, Bouwaye, Aissa Language: French |
Analyse de la situation du transfert des connaissances et de l'utilisation de l'évidence dans le domaine de la santé de la mère du nouveau-né et de l'enfant au Bénin Rapports
Author(s): Balogoun, Ayédélé Amour Language: French |
Organization Ouest Africaine de la santé peut-elle devenir un centre de promotion de transfert-application des connaissances en faveur de la santé maternelle néonatale et infantile? Dossiers
Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre, Sombie, Issiaka, Johnson, Ermel, Lokossou, Virgil, Keita, Namoudou Language: French |
Situational analysis of knowledge transfer and exchange for mother, newborn and child health in West Africa Study
The summary of the multi-country situational analysis of knowledge transfer and exchange (KTE) for maternal newborn and child health (MNCH) was commissioned by the project “Moving Evidence to Policy for MNCH (MEP)” in West Africa. It is meant to inform strategic choices within the West African Health Organization (WAHO) as a knowledge brokerage institution that promotes evidence-informed health policy-making (EIHP) and evidence-based health practices (EBHP). While health sector development policy documents and MNCH strategic plans value evidence-to-policy efforts, financial resources allocation to achieve this are lacking. The report details survey results and analysis of data. Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
Communauté de pratique pour l’amélioration de la santé de la reproduction, maternelle, néonatale, infantile et de l’adolescent(e) dans l’espace CEDEAO Dossiers
Author(s): Johnson, Ermel Language: French |
A review of the process of knowledge transfer and use of evidence in reproductive and child health in Ghana Study
Although Ghana’s investment in health has improved over the years, it compares unfavourably to other developing countries. The report analyzes and reviews the process of knowledge transfer and use of scientific research evidence in the formulation of Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) policies in Ghana. RCH covers maternal, newborn and child health. A table presents details of information-gathering for components of the knowledge transfer process. Survey findings show that a larger proportion of research in RCH is funded by donors who may have objectives different from that of policy-makers. Author(s): Abekah-Nkrumah, Gordon Language: English |
Situation du transfert des connaissances et de l’utilisation des données probantes en santé maternelle et infantile en Afrique de l’Ouest Dossiers
Author(s): Crespin, Xavier Language: French |
Health systems and MNCH outcomes in West Africa : a study of conducive and limiting health systems : factors to improving maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) in West Africa Training Materials
This study explored health system factors conducive to, or that limit maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) policy, program implementation and outcomes in West Africa, and how and why they work in some contexts. Findings relate to the health system and how it affects interventions and outcomes. There is little research in the sub-region related to such values as responsiveness, equity, fairness, justice, and rights and responsibilities, which may be explicitly or implicitly held within the health system, and more specifically, how they apply to MNCH and other programs. Author(s): Agyepong, Irene Akua, Kwamie, Aku, Defor, Selina, Frimpong, Edith, Aryeetey, Genevieve C., Ibrahim, Abdallah Language: English |
Réflexion sur l’intégration du genre à l’OOAS et au suivi-evaluation et apprentissage du projet MEP Études
Author(s): Amadou, Moukaïla Language: French |
Innovative evidence to improve mothers and child health in West Africa Training Materials
The brochure/booklet is a compilation of research, and reviews of research by and for West African countries, assembled through IDRC and the West African Health Organization (WAHO). To build individual and institutional capacities, WAHO grants training bursaries to young researchers and has set up a network of research institutions to support researchers’ professional development, exchanges and collaboration. The studies in the brochure cover topics of health system issues related to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and maternal and child health. WAHO funds research to increase the availability of evidence that supports informed decision-making in the field of mother and infant health. Author(s): West African Health Organization Language: English |
Promoting evidence informed policy making in Nigeria : a review of the maternal, newborn and child health policy development process Article
The study reviewed policy documents on maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) in Nigeria to assess the application of evidence-informed mechanisms in the policy formulation process. From a literature review, policy documents indicate that a consultative process of collection of inputs involving multiple stakeholders was employed, but there was no rigorous scientific process of assessing, adaptation and application of scientific evidence acknowledged in the policy development process. The policy documents neither reported the process of production of evidence used in their development nor indicated the mechanisms in place for knowledge transfer and use of health research findings. Author(s): Uneke, Chigozie Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Keita, Namoudou, Lokossou, Virgil, Johnson, Ermel Language: English |
Promoting the use of evidence in health policymaking in the ECOWAS region : the development and contextualization of an evidence-based policymaking guidance Article
The need for a tool to provide systematic guidance on evidence-based policymaking necessitated the production of the evidence-based policy-making (EBPM) Guidance. A regional Guidance Validation Meeting for West African policymakers was convened by the West African Health Organization (WAHO) to review findings from existing guidance documents and validate the new EBPM Guidance edition. Among key recommendations it includes: properly defining/refining policy problems; reviewing contextual issues; initiating policy priority setting; considering political acceptability of policy; commissioning research; use of rapid response services, use of policy advisory/ technical/steering committees; and use of policy briefs and policy dialogue. Author(s): Uneke, Chigozie Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Johnson, Ermel, Uneke, Bilikis Iyabo, Okolo, Stanley Language: English |
Policy dialogue to support maternal newborn child health evidence use in policymaking : the lessons learnt from the Nigeria research days first edition Article
The Department of Family Health (Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria) initiated and organized the first Nigeria Research Days (NRD) as a platform for exchange between researchers and policymakers towards improving maternal, new-born and child health (IMNCH). Participants supported the content and format of the meeting and were willing to implement recommendations of the final communiqué. To enhance the translation of research to policy, policy dialogue appears to be an effective mechanism for researcher-policymaker collaboration. This paper describes the conceptualization, implementation and facilitation of the first edition of "Nigeria Research Days,” including a guide for panel discussions. Author(s): Johnson, Ermel A. K., Sombié, Issiaka, Uzochukwu, Benjamin S. C., Uneke, Jesse C., Amadou, Moukaïla Language: English |
Driving the health agenda in West Africa Article
This journal article covers the background and activities of the West African Health Organisation (WAHO). Priorities include Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health; Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable and Communicable Diseases; Access to High Quality Medicines and Vaccines; Promotion of Quality Standards and Centres of Excellence, and Availability of Region-Specific Health Information. Author(s): West African Health Organization (WAHO) Language: English |
Transfert de connaissance et l'utilisation des evidences dans l'elaboration des politiques et programmes de santé maternelle et infantile en Afrique de l'Ouest Dossiers
Author(s): Sombié, Issiaka, Jude, Aidam, Montorzi, Gabriela, Godt, Sue Language: French |
Application of equitable impact sensitive tool (EQUIST) in evidence informed policymaking to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Senegal Brief
The policy brief reviews evidence drawn from the application of EQUitable Impact Sensitive Tool (EQUIST). In terms of improving maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) outcomes, extending services to the most deprived and marginalized communities not only averts more deaths, but also is more cost effective. UNICEF designed the EQUitable Impact Sensitive Tool (EQUIST online tool http://equist.info/en/pages/home) to enable the global health community to improve equity in MNCH and reduce health disparities between marginalized and wealthier groups. Among the most critical health systems components that requires strengthening is the concept of health equity. Author(s): Uneke, Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Uro-Chukwu, Henry, Johnson, Ermel Language: English |
Promoting knowledge transfer and culture of evidence use for health systems strengthening in West Africa Brief
This one-page poster/policy brief describes preliminary results of promoting the culture of health research evidence in strengthening health systems in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sub-region. This West African Health Organization (WAHO) policy report shows some indicators of the use of health research in policy making.. Author(s): Sombie, Issiaka, Johnson, Ermel, Moukaila, Amadou, Lokossou, Virgil, Keita, Namoudou Language: English |
Application de l'outil équitable sensible à l'impact (EQUIST) à l'élaboration de politiques fondées sur des données probantes pour améliorer les résultats en matière de santé maternelle et infantile au Burkina Faso Dossiers
Author(s): Uneke, C. Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Uro-Chukwu, Henry Language: French |
Application of equitable impact sensitive tool (EQUIST) in evidence informed policymaking to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Burkina Faso Brief
This brief puts forward policy options and strategies towards improved health equity and access to health care services in Benin. The concept of health equity is a critical component that requires strengthening to improve maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) outcomes in Burkina Faso. UNICEF has designed the EQUitable Impact Sensitive Tool (EQUIST) to enable the global health community to improve equity in MNCH and to reduce health disparities. The brief reviews findings from a study using the EQUIST Situation Analysis of maternal and child health outcomes in Benin by sub-national categorization, wealth, and residence. Author(s): Uneke, C. Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Uro-Chukwu, Henry, Johnson, Ermel Language: English |
Health systems and MNCH outcomes in West Africa : a study of conducive and limiting health systems factors to improving mother, new born and child health in West Africa Report
The presentation provides demographic information/graphs regarding child mortality rates over time (1990-2013) in sub-Sharan African countries, and specifically focuses on countries involved in the West African Health Organization (WAHO) Innovating for Maternal and Child Health in Africa (IMCHA) project: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal. It reviews significant factors within the project regarding motivation, barriers, competencies and conducive and limiting health system factors. Author(s): Agyepong, Irene Akua Language: English |
Regional validation workshop on the situation analysis of knowledge transfer and evidence use in maternal newborn and child health in ECOWAS region Report
This brief introductory presentation provides images from workshop participants and describes objectives of the Innovating for Maternal and Child Health in Africa (IMCHA) programme. Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
WAHO evidence-based healthcare initiative : a role for the cochrane collaboration and evidence synthesis Report
This regional West African Health Organization (WAHO) workshop presentation outlines the building blocks for evidence-based health care, including information about the “Cochrane Collaboration.” This is an international network of individuals and institutions committed to preparing, maintaining and disseminating systematic reviews of the effects of healthcare interventions. A screenshot/link to the Cochrane Library webpage is provided. Systematic reviews and clinical practice guidelines are presented as they fit within evidence-based health care systems. Relevant high-quality Cochrane systematic reviews inform WHO policy and practice guidelines. Author(s): Meremikwu, Martin Language: English |
Scaling up care for perinatal depression for improved maternal and infant health (SPECTRA) Report
Evidence indicates that with training, providers of maternal care at primary care levels can offer effective treatment for perinatal depression conditions which impact women’s health and child care. The scaling up care for perinatal depression for improved maternal and infant health (SPECTRA) aim is to reduce the burden of perinatal depression and improve maternal and child health. System-level barriers and facilitators to the delivery of effective intervention for perinatal depression have been identified. The presentation for the West African Health Organization (WAHO) workshop suggests approaches to the dissemination of information through community leaders, service users and caregivers. Author(s): Gureje, Oye Language: English |
Situational analysis for moving MNCH evidence into policy in West Africa (MEP) : knowledge transfer and exchange : WAHO institutional assessment synthesis of country assessments Report
The regional West African Health Organization (WAHO) workshop defines knowledge translation as: “the dynamic and iterative process that includes the synthesis, dissemination, exchange, and ethically sound application of knowledge to improve health, provide more effective services and products, and strengthen the healthcare system.” The presentation also defines modes of knowledge transfer such as diffusion, dissemination, implementation, and research utilization and illustrates how these fit within evidence informed health policy. One of the key capacity constraints of policymakers in West Africa is the inability to effectively use research evidence in policy-making and implementation. The presentation is in both English and French. Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
Using equitable impact sensitive tool (EQUIST) to promote implementation of evidence informed policymaking to improve maternal and child health outcomes : a focus on six West African countries Article
The EQUitable Impact Sensitive Tool (EQUIST), a web-based free-access, analytical platform, enables countries and communities to address issues of health equity in maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) and minimize health disparities. EQUIST highlights those most vulnerable and needing urgent health interventions as a matter of priority. This detailed study used EQUIST to provide evidence-based information from demographic health surveys (DHS) regarding cost-effectiveness and equitable impact of interventions to improve MNCH outcomes in Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria and Senegal. Neonatal causes, malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea were responsible for most under-five deaths. Haemorrhages, and hypertensive disorder were responsible for highest maternal deaths. Author(s): Uneke, Chigozie Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Uro-Chukwu, Henry Chukwuemeka, Johnson, Ermel Language: English |
Assessment of national maternal and child health policy-makers’ knowledge and capacity for evidence-informed policy-making in Nigeria Article
The study aimed to engage Nigerian maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) policy-makers and stakeholders and to assess their existing knowledge and capacity on the use of research evidence for policy-making and practice. A total of 40 participants completed the questionnaire. The outcomes suggest that a future stakeholders’ engagement event could serve as an important platform to assess policy-makers’ capacity for evidence-informed policy-making. Constraints to capacity include lack of access to, and inability to synthesize, adapt and utilize available research evidence. Author(s): Uneke, Chigozie Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Keita, Namoudou, Lokossou, Virgil, Johnson, Ermel, Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
Knowledge transfer and use of evidence in maternal newborn and child health : current situation in ECOWAS Brief
This policy brief presents the results of the situational analysis conducted in six countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria and Senegal, through the “Moving Maternal Newborn and Child Health Evidence into Policy in West Africa (MEP)” project. It provides recommendations for efficient and effective use of evidence in the area of Mother, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH). Recommendations include capacity building in research and knowledge transfer; and the creation of a collaborative platform between researchers and policy-makers to identify priorities that are based on policy maker needs and research findings. Author(s): West African Health Organisation (WAHO) Language: English |
Inclusion of gender and equity in maternal, newborn and child health services in West Africa : a literature review of programming Brief
There is a lack of programs that address gender inequity in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region. This brief discusses the inclusion of gender and equity in maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) programming, focusing on Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal. Child health programming needs to include malnutrition, immunization, integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI), and community case management of diarrhea, pneumonia, and malaria. Complex power structures within societies lead to disadvantages in health status. Nation‐wide rollouts of health care interventions often do not address the needs of underserved or overlooked populations. Author(s): Larson, Elizabeth A. Language: English |
FBR en santé maternelle et infantile et équité au Burkina Faso et au Mali Rapports
Author(s): Coulibaly, Abdourahmane, Ridde, Valery, Somé, Paul André, Touré, Laurence Language: French |
Increasing women’s access to skilled care to reduce maternal and perinatal mortality in Nigeria Report
The presentation reviews the study aims and methodology. Both demand and supply factors must be addressed if women are to use primary health care (PHC) for maternal and child health (MCH) services in Nigeria, where 750,000 children under the age of 5 die each year. The project aims to explore the socio-economic and cultural factors of use or non-use of PHC services in two selected rural areas in Edo State, Nigeria; and to implement a series of multi-facetted interventions for improving demand and use of PHC services. Author(s): Women’s Health and Action Research Centre (WHARC), Nigeria Language: English |
Moving MNCH evidence into policy in West Africa (MEP) : instructions for group work Report
This brief presentation provides guidelines for dissemination of research through stakeholder meetings; how to prepare for meetings and policy discussions; how to facilitate discussion; and prior to the meetings, how to analyze research for critical messages and priority actions. Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
OOAS comme OPRS du projet MEP : analyse situationnelle Études
Author(s): ONGOLO-ZOGO, Pierre Language: French |
Analyse de la situation du transfert et de l’échange de connaissances au profit de la santé maternelle et néonatale en Afrique de l’Ouest Études
Author(s): Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: French |
Improving maternal and child health policymaking processes in Nigeria : an assessment of policymakers’ needs, barriers and facilitators of evidence-informed policymaking Article
Background: In Nigeria, interest in the evidence-to-policy process is gaining momentum among policymakers involved in maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH). However, numerous gaps exist among policymakers on use of research evidence in policymaking. The objective of this study was to assess the perception of MNCH policymakers regarding their needs and the barriers and facilitators to use of research evidence in policymaking in Nigeria. Methods: The study design was a cross-sectional assessment of perceptions undertaken during a national MNCH stakeholders’ engagement event convened in Abuja, Nigeria. A questionnaire designed to assess participants’ perceptions was administered in person. Group consultations were also held, which centred on policymakers’ evidence- to-policy needs to enhance the use of evidence in policymaking. Results: A total of 40 participants completed the questionnaire and participated in the group consultations. According to the respondents, the main barriers to evidence use in MNCH policymaking include inadequate capacity of organisations to conduct policy-relevant research; inadequate budgetary allocation for policy-relevant research; policymakers’ indifference to research evidence; poor dissemination of research evidence to policymakers; and lack of interaction fora between researchers and policymakers. The main facilitators of use of research evidence for policymaking in MNCH, as perceived by the respondents, include capacity building for policymakers on use of research evidence in policy formulation; appropriate dissemination of research findings to relevant stakeholders; involving policymakers in research design and execution; and allowing policymakers’ needs to drive research. The main ways identified to promote policymakers’ use of evidence for policymaking included improving policymakers’ skills in information and communication technology, data use, analysis, communication and advocacy. Conclusion: To improve the use of research evidence in policymaking in Nigeria, there is a need to establish mechanisms that will facilitate the movement from evidence to policy and address the needs identified by policymakers. It is also imperative to improve organisational initiatives that facilitate use of research evidence for policymaking. Author(s): Uneke, Chigozie J., Sombie, Issiaka, Keita, Namoudou, Lokossou, Virgil, Johnson, Ermel, Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
An assessment of maternal, newborn and child health implementation studies in Nigeria : implications for evidence informed policymaking and practice Article
This review provides insight into the process of evidence-informed policymaking and knowledge transfer based on implementation research, focusing on Mother, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) in Nigeria. Although a reduction in maternal and child mortality in Nigeria could be attributed to implementation of various intervention policies, the study made clear that new and effective policies were informed by research evidence derived from implementation research. Implementation science is the use of strategies to adopt, adapt, and integrate evidence-based health interventions and policies. It is thus able to change patterns of practice within specific settings. Author(s): Uneke, Chigozie Jesse, Sombie, Issiaka, Keita, Namoudou, Lokossou, Virgil, Johnson, Ermel, Ongolo-Zogo, Pierre Language: English |
Améliorer la santé des mères et des enfants en Afrique de l'Ouest par l'utilisation de l'évidence dans la prise de décisions Dossiers
Author(s): Organisation Ouest Africaine de la Santé (OOAS) Language: French |
Approche NEP et prise de décisions factuelles dans le domaine de la SMNI Rapports
Author(s): Sangho, Hamadoun Language: French |