Demand creation for VMMC (Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision) often falls solely on the Implementing Partners, leaving health facilities focused exclusively on service provision. But what if facilities and communities were actively involved in driving demand? This is where Population Solutions for Health’s (PSH) INTEGRATE program’s shared incentive initiative steps in.
Shifting the Paradigm:
Traditionally, Implementing Partners shoulder the burden of VMMC demand creation. The shared incentive initiative flips this script, fostering collaboration, ownership, and motivation between facilities, school health masters, and community mobilizers. Every male circumcision translates to shared rewards, incentivizing everyone in the VMMC chain.
Chimanimani: A Model of Success:
Chimanimani district stands as a shining example. Since adopting the initiative in April 2023, they’ve seen a remarkable strengthening of facility and demand creation efforts. St. Peters Mandeya Clinic’s representative echoes the sentiment, attributing the increased mobilization to the shared incentive’s motivating power.
A Ripple Effect of Engagement:
This initiative has triggered a chain reaction of positive outcomes:
- Community mobilizers are actively recruited.
- Awareness campaigns reach new heights through facility meetings, health drives, and social gatherings.
- Nurses seamlessly integrate VMMC into existing programs like polio and measles campaigns.
- Facilities receive USD 85 through shared incentives, directly addressing their needs and motivating staff involvement.
- School Health Coordinators are enthusiastic, calling the initiative “a good motivator to be active in VMMC activities.”
The Road Ahead:
The shared incentive initiative holds immense potential for sustainable VMMC programming. The following steps involve strengthening incentive disbursement channels and formalizing mobilization efforts to enhance reporting and track progress toward shared goals.
Chimanimani’s story is a testament to the power of shared ownership and reward. By shifting the paradigm from individual responsibility to collective action, we can unlock a brighter future for VMMC programs and the communities they serve.