Strength in Unity

In a small village in Huaysaiy District, tucked away in the northernmost province of Bokeo in Lao PDR, a simple greeting echoes. "Sabaidee," greets a health communication officer, kicking off more than just casual discussion. You see, in a world grappling with the lingering shadows of COVID-19, a greeting is the start of something more: a lifeline, a conduit of vital knowledge, and a show of solidarity.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect us, one thing has become clear: connecting with local communities is not just nice to have, it's a lifesaver. In places where people don't have easy access to healthcare or information, talking and connecting effectively is especially crucial. UNICEF in Laos knows how important this is and has made it a top priority to engage with communities that need help the most.

To actively engage with communities across Lao PDR, UNICEF has been working relentlessly with the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) Center for Health Statistics and Information (CHSI).

The CHSI and Provincial Health Education Officers are part of a larger initiative led by UNICEF in Lao PDR, which has keenly identified that the struggle against a pandemic isn't won in the hallways of hospitals alone. It takes root in the heart of communities where healthcare is less a guarantee without the right support.

A compelling illustration of this principle unfolds in Huaysaiy District. Equipped with the unassuming yet potent GATHER technique—Greet, Ask, Tell, Help, Explain, and Return— CHSI alongside provincial and district health education officers are paving the way for impactful conversations. With the GATHER technique as their compass, these officers are not just messengers – they are transforming communities into allies.

Their journey starts with a simple greeting, creating a comfortable environment for dialogue. These officers don't merely listen but they engage deeply with what's being shared. Armed with precise knowledge, they communicate in ways that resonate and assist, builds trust and forges connection between healthcare experts and the community they serve.

They also help equip communities with the right knowledge. With the focus in Huaysaiy being on COVID-19 prevention and control, health communication officers are also working to ensure that the community knows the ins-and-outs of staying safe, whether it's practicing proper hand hygiene or embracing the habit of wearing masks. Their clear, straightforward information acts as a shield against the virus, safeguarding the community's well-being.

What truly stands out is the unwavering dedication of these health and communication professionals. Their commitment to learning and growth speaks volumes about their determination to enhance community well-being. But their commitment extends even further: by scheduling these sessions in the evenings, they demonstrate an acute grasp of village life dynamics and a commitment to fitting in with the community's rhythm.

This brand of community engagement however doesn't remain confined to Huaysaiy. UNICEF Lao PDR extends its efforts across various avenues to uplift vulnerable communities. By forging meaningful connections, they nurture the resilience and vitality of communities. It's not about eloquent speeches or elaborate strategies; it's about acknowledging the unique needle point of each community and building trust from that foundation.

In the end, what propels change isn't a monologue from healthcare experts; it's a dialogue co-authored by community members and health officers alike. The narrative that unfolds is not just about battling a virus but about fostering resilience, about writing a story of collective growth against the backdrop of unprecedented challenges.

So, the next time you hear the word "community engagement," think of the health communication officers in Huaysaiy and the villages across Lao PDR. Think of the lantern-lit gatherings and the earnest dialogues that ripple through them. And remember, all of this starts with a simple "Sabaidee."

UNICEF Lao PDR, in conjunction with the support of USAID, proudly champions this collaboration, dedicated to forging a path towards improved well-being and a more promising future for all parties involved.