The warning was issued during a Step-Down Training on Community-led Monitoring (CLM) and Community Systems Strengthening (CSS) held in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital. Speaking at the event, the Deputy State Coordinator of the TB Network in Zamfara, Abdullahi Lawali Bungudu, emphasized the importance of empowering communities to take the lead in health service delivery.
Bungudu explained that “CLM empowers affected populations to play an active role in assessing the quality of health services, identifying gaps, and ensuring accountability in service delivery,” adding that “CSS on the other hand builds the capacity of community organizations, networks, and leaders to respond effectively.”
He stressed that strong communities are vital for the success of public health interventions. “Stronger communities mean stronger health systems, and stronger health systems mean better outcomes for TB, Malaria, and HIV/AIDS interventions,” he stated.
Addressing the participants, Bungudu added, “This training is not just about knowledge but rather about responsibility. Each of you here is a representative of your community, and the skills you acquire must be taken back to improve services, educate others, and amplifythe voices of those most affected. When communities lead, solutions become more effective, inclusive, and sustainable.”
“On behalf of the TB Network Zamfara State, I sincerely appreciate our partners and facilitators for making this possible. I urge all participants to be proactive, committed, and focused as we work together toward a future where no life is lost to TB, Malaria, or HIV/AIDS. Together, we can make our communities healthier, stronger, and free from the burden of these diseases,” he concluded.
Also speaking at the event, the State Coordinator of the Health Empowerment Promotion and Women and Children Advancement Network (HEPWHAN), Malan Hassan Tukur, called on participants to effectively apply the newly acquired CLM and CSS skills in tracking and monitoring health-related issues in their communities.
Tukur also expressed appreciation to the ATM Network for its consistent efforts in developing and supporting community-led initiatives. He urged government and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in order to achieve sustainable health goals.
Representing the State Coordinator of ACOMIN, Ibrahim Idris echoed similar sentiments. He commended the ATM Network for its “commendable efforts” and called on the government and donors to reinforce partnerships and collaboration. Idris also encouraged participants to ensure that the knowledge and skills gained from the training are cascaded down to the grassroots level.
