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Understanding the process of strengthening multi‐sectoral efforts for anemia reduction: Qualitative findings from Sierra Leone and Uganda
Author(s) -
Sarkar Danya,
Murphy Hillary,
Fisseha Teemar,
Koroma Aminata S.,
Hodges Mary H.,
Adero Nancy,
Ngalombi Sarah,
Nabakooza Jane,
Wun Jolene,
Namaste Sorrel M.L.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
the international journal of health planning and management
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.672
H-Index - 41
eISSN - 1099-1751
pISSN - 0749-6753
DOI - 10.1002/hpm.2557
Subject(s) - sierra leone , context (archaeology) , anemia , economic growth , legitimacy , workload , documentation , developing country , political science , medicine , public relations , business , development economics , economics , geography , computer science , management , archaeology , politics , law , programming language
Summary Anemia is a significant global health problem, and progress to reduce it has been slow. A multi‐sectoral, context‐specific, and country‐led approach is recommended to effectively address anemia, but there is limited documentation of how this has worked in practice. We present key findings and lessons learned from Sierra Leone and Uganda's experiences establishing national‐level anemia coordination platforms. A longitudinal collective case study methodology was used, with in‐depth interviews of National Anemia Working Group members in both countries; data was analyzed to distill the salient lessons learned across countries. Similar factors were identified in the 2 countries. Setting the agenda was an important first step, accomplished by using country‐specific anemia‐related data and obtaining multi‐sectoral commitment. Establishment of a cohesive coordination structure provided an effective platform to prioritize and align anemia activities. Strong, committed leadership and representation of diverse stakeholders was essential to maintain the legitimacy of anemia efforts. The main barriers to the policy‐making process included misalignment of sectoral mandates, differences in work cultures, as well as competing priorities and increased staff workload. Sierra Leone and Uganda's experiences contribute to the global evidence base for anemia coordination and planning at the national level, particularly around linking health and non‐health sectors and developing multi‐sectoral platforms. It remains to be seen how and to what extent resulting policies in Sierra Leone and Uganda will translate to implementation.