HIV, tuberculosis (TB), sexually transmitted infections, substance abuse, and the growing burden of non-communicable diseases are among the major health challenges facing communities in Addis Ababa. Additionally, traffic accidents and health risks affecting young people add to growing concerns over public health services, according to a new community survey.
The survey shows that limited public awareness, difficulties in building trust between residents and health institutions, and gaps in community participation are complicating efforts to address these problems. Health professionals and community representatives say stronger cooperation, reliable information, and community-led initiatives are essential to identifying pressing needs and improving access to appropriate health services.
A community-led assessment in Kaliti, located in Addis Ababa’s Woreda 7, has brought these concerns into focus. The joint initiative between local residents and the Kaliti Health Centre identified priority health problems and service delivery gaps, seeking to strengthen communication between the community and health professionals to develop practical solutions.
The Community Power Voice (CPV) initiative, implemented in partnership with AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Ethiopia, began with 20 community members and has been operating for approximately six months since July 2025. Participants conducted assessments using questionnaires and checklists to gather information about local health concerns and service challenges. The findings will inform an upcoming action plan developed alongside key stakeholders.
Solomon Zenebe, a health professional at Kaliti Health Centre who helps coordinate the group, said community members conducted the assessments independently to ensure fairness and credibility. The approach allows residents to identify their own priorities rather than relying solely on institutional evaluations.
However, building confidence among residents remains a significant hurdle.
Meaza Alemayehu, manager of Kaliti Health Centre, noted that some community members initially viewed the outreach with suspicion, questioning whether the initiative was intended to serve the health centre’s interests rather than public needs. She emphasized that repeated awareness-raising, transparent communication, and sustained engagement are crucial to building trust and encouraging active participation.
Ultimately, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between the health centre and the community by providing a platform to identify problems, discuss solutions, and coordinate action. Its long-term success will depend on whether these assessment findings translate into practical service improvements.
Organizers hope the experience in Kaliti will offer valuable lessons for similar community-based health initiatives in other districts, proving that sustained cooperation between residents, healthcare providers, and local stakeholders can make health services more responsive to community needs.