Anambra Launches National Community Health Programme

Anambra State has been chosen as one of Nigeria's pilot states for the implementation of a national Community-Based Health Workforce (CBHW) programme, aimed at strengthening primary healthcare and improving referral systems. This initiative is a collaboration involving the Mastercard Foundation, mSh Nigeria, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), and the Anambra State Government.

Announced by Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, during a training session held in Amawbia from August 18 to 20, 2026, the programme seeks to generate evidence and best practices for community healthcare delivery. It will equip local government health managers with skills to coordinate community health workers effectively, ensuring timely care through an integrated referral system.

Each of the 21 local government areas in Anambra already has a Supervisor for Health. The programme aims to enhance accountability, improve coordination, and strengthen emergency transportation services to minimize delays in accessing healthcare, addressing factors contributing to preventable deaths.