JICA Jiggers Grassroots Project has been conducting Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) surveys in Ndhiwa and Suba-South Sub-Counties.
The surveys are based on the baseline survey carried out in 2021 at the beginning of the project, which aimed to assess the number of jigger cases and the prevalence, and as a result, identified areas that were endemic or non-endemic. Two community units were selected from each sub-county, making a total of four units.
This KAP survey has been conducted in the same localities over the past four years. Following the first and second rounds conducted in 2022 and 2023, this year marked the third and final evaluation.
This year, training for the CHPs who conducted the survey was held on 6th and 7th November, followed by two weeks of data collection in each sub-county.
One of the main objectives of the project is to ensure the sustainability of jigger prevention and control among residents.
JICA-NUITM has collaborated with the County and Sub-County health teams to integrate jigger-related awareness, identification and treatment into existing community health education activities such as Action Days and Dialogue Days.
These activities are regular outreach events led by Community Health Assistants (CHAs) and Community Health Promoters (CHPs), and the project team has continuously advocated for incorporating jigger education and response into these existing platforms.
A total of three rounds of KAP surveys have now been conducted, and based on the findings, the Sub-County Ministry of Health has implemented appropriate interventions for both schools and communities in the target areas.
Ongoing training session at Kiembe health facility, Tonga lower, Suba-south with the CHPs.