From May 27-29, 2024, a transformative event took place at Zuma Resort in Suleja, Niger State – the Three-day National Nutrition Messages and Social Behavior Change (SBC) Materials Development Workshop. This workshop was a gathering of minds and hearts committed to enhancing health outcomes across Nigeria.
A Collective Effort
Participants from key health organizations came together to learn, collaborate, and innovate in the field of health communication. The workshop saw participation from a diverse group of organizations, including:
- Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (Nutrition Department and Health Promotion Division)
- FHI360 Alive and Thrive
- National Primary Healthcare Development Agency
- State Primary Healthcare Development Boards across the six geo-political zones
- Health and Lifestyle Awareness Development Initiative (HLADI)
- Implementing Partners
- Creative Agencies
HLADI's Active Role
HLADI's Program and Project Managers were among the enthusiastic participants. The workshop equipped them with essential skills and knowledge, vital for advancing health communication strategies.
Capacity Building
Over the course of three intensive days, the workshop provided a solid foundation in Social Behavior Change (SBC) principles and practices. Key takeaways included:
1. Designing Effective Communication Strategies: Crafting communication strategies that promote positive health behaviors.
2. Audience Segmentation: Tailoring messages to resonate with specific needs of different groups.
3. Developing Engaging Communication Materials: Creating materials that are informative, engaging, and compelling.
4. Monitoring and Evaluating SBC Interventions: Assessing the impact of interventions to continuously improve strategies.
Why It Matters
The skills and knowledge acquired during this workshop are practical tools that will enhance our ability to communicate more effectively and achieve better health outcomes in the communities we serve. By applying these principles, HLADI and other participating organizations can foster positive health behaviors and contribute to a healthier future for all.
A Word of Thanks
We extend our deepest gratitude to Alive and Thrive and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for organizing this invaluable workshop. The lessons learned and the skills gained will undoubtedly strengthen HLADI's capacity to promote positive health behaviors.
Stay tuned as we continue to implement these strategies and share our journey towards healthier communities.
#HLADI #SBC #HealthCommunication #AliveandThrive #FMOH