24/06/2026
Trust, partnership, and investment are the lifeblood of resilient health systems. The 3rd Community Systems Strengthening Knowledge Dissemination Forum ( ) highlighted these pillars when they are needed most. Across Africa, health systems face unprecedented pressures: recurring pandemics, tightening resources, and shifting donor landscapes threaten progress and stability. Strengthening community systems is urgent. Community-driven approaches empower countries to respond rapidly to crises, close persistent health gaps, and build a foundation for sustainable progress in equity, health, and national development. By bringing together leaders, advocates, and practitioners, this forum sparked critical conversations about making communities not just beneficiaries but drivers of lasting change.
In 25 counties, communities have identified 44,553 challenges in HIV, TB, and malaria services through the i-Monitor platform, with action taken on 60% of reported issues. The impact extends beyond accountability. Community systems are achieving measurable results: viral suppression among people on treatment has reached 89%, TB patients receive essential support throughout treatment, and malaria prevalence among children has decreased from 8% to 6% over the past decade.
While giving his remarks, Onesmus Mlewa, Technical Programmes Director at KANCO, pointed out, "Pandemics begin and end in communities. When communities are empowered, organised and resilient, they become the first line of defence and the foundation of lasting health security."
The forum explored the future of community health financing, donor transitions, and Universal Health Coverage ( ), calling for greater recognition of the vital role communities play and for increased investment in the systems that support them.
Strong health systems are built not only in health facilities but also within communities.
The Ministry of Health Speak Up Africa