MAPE health project: Combating neglected tropical diseases & improving access to healthcare for disadvantaged population groups in the health districts of Malantouen, Yoko & Bankim (Cameroon)
Situation:
The MAPE project in Cameroon combats neglected tropical diseases and improves maternal and child health in highly disadvantaged regions. Many people lack access to healthcare, leading to high maternal mortality and untreated diseases. FAIRMED strengthens health facilities, trains staff, promotes safe deliveries, and raises community awareness. The goal is to improve access to healthcare and sustainably strengthen the health system.
Objectives:
The MAPE project improves the health of vulnerable populations in Malantouen, Bankim, and Yoko and strengthens access to healthcare services. Its focus is on building an integrated system for monitoring and treating neglected tropical diseases. To achieve this, health personnel and communities are trained, diagnosis and treatment are improved, and an effective case management and monitoring system is established. Communities are actively involved in planning and implementation.
- Improved data, safe deliveries, ownership
- Confirmed cases of neglected tropical diseases will be recorded in Cameroon’s national health information system to improve diagnosis and treatment.
- Births among indigenous Bedzang women are expected to take place in health facilities.
- Members of organizations of persons with disabilities receive training to strengthen their participation.
- Training of community health workers to identify and follow up on cases of neglected tropical diseases in Malantouen and Yoko
- Paraclinical diagnosis and provision of medicines and supplies
- Skin disease screenings in schools
- Training of traditional birth attendants to identify risks and refer pregnant women
Sustainability through local ownership
FAIRMED strengthens local structures with the aim of eventually withdrawing. Successful approaches are scaled up, local actors are trained, & responsibility is transferred. Close collaboration with authorities & communities, along with local financing, promotes sustainability. The goal is for communities to independently continue the activities in the future.
Strengthening Local Actors – Achieving Sustainable Results
By involving local actors, the project achieves sustainable results: earlier detection and improved referral of neglected tropical diseases, enhanced infrastructure, and a strengthened WASH sector. Partnerships enable further measures, and increased awareness of civil registration documents promotes inclusion and access to health services.
