In Senegal, the organization Solthis has evaluated its interventions under the "One Health" programme, ahead of the World "One Health" Day. The programme aims to promote a comprehensive approach to health, considering the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Solthis highlighted the importance of its achievements in the Sedhiou department, where the programme has been implemented in three communes: Sedhiou, Djiredji, and Bambaly.
The Sedhiou region faces significant challenges due to climate change, including heatwaves and dust storms. According to Philippe Correa, coordinator of the Seneya project, these issues are exacerbated by human activities. To mitigate the impact on human health, Correa emphasizes the need to address environmental and animal health concerns. The "One Health" programme has been designed to tackle these challenges, with a focus on building resilience and improving healthcare infrastructure.
The programme has implemented a four-axis approach, resulting in enhanced resilience to climate change and improved healthcare infrastructure for local communities. Correa explained that the "One Health" approach enables communities to understand the effects of climate change and develop solutions to address them. The programme has also prioritized community engagement and participation in resilience-building and adaptation efforts.
Capacity-building initiatives have been conducted for community leaders and professionals in human, animal, and environmental health. A methodology developed by "Climat Action Accelerator", a member of the project consortium, has been used to design and implement infrastructure improvements. These upgrades are based on diagnostics of healthcare services and governance.
The programme's infrastructure development aims to strengthen healthcare services and promote a more integrated approach to health. By addressing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, the "One Health" programme seeks to build a more resilient and sustainable healthcare system. Solthis's evaluation of the programme highlights its successes and identifies areas for further improvement.
Community engagement and participation have been critical components of the programme's success. By empowering local communities to take ownership of their health and wellbeing, the programme aims to create a lasting impact. The evaluation conducted by Solthis will inform future programme development and ensure that the "One Health" approach continues to meet the needs of local communities.
The "One Health" programme has demonstrated the importance of a comprehensive approach to health, considering the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health. As the programme continues to evolve, it is likely to serve as a model for integrated healthcare initiatives in other regions. Solthis's evaluation has provided valuable insights into the programme's successes and challenges, highlighting the potential for sustainable and impactful change.
Key points
- The "One Health" programme has improved healthcare infrastructure and built resilience to climate change in Senegal's Sedhiou region.
