Developing an Operation Model for Mission Trips on Health and Evangelism in Developing Countries - The Tanzania Salama Health Project
Location
Seminary Room S120
Start Date
10-2-2023 10:10 AM
End Date
10-2-2023 10:40 AM
Description
Numerous health workers and evangelists have conducted mission trips in developing countries. Though benefits have been realized by many African communities, some were short-lived and not sustainable. Once the mission team leaves, the communities are left unattended, with little or no support. This project strives to develop an operating model for sustainable mission trips. A health assessment at Kihurio village in Tanzania was conducted using participatory research in December 2017, followed by a visit in December 2021. This project focuses on preventing diseases using lifestyle changes followed by an in-depth investigation and provision of health care by local providers. Research, evangelism, and health care were the main components in 2021. Results of participatory research in 2017 found that at least 50% of the participants had hypertension. Focus group discussions of men and women also showed that among perceived health problems were blood pressure, back pain, water and sanitation, cancers, and gynecological problems. The grassroots approach showed more participation from the community and exhibited community’s sense of ownership of the project. The results of the two visits will be used to develop sustainable health programs. A second follow-up visit is planned for December 2022.
Developing an Operation Model for Mission Trips on Health and Evangelism in Developing Countries - The Tanzania Salama Health Project
Seminary Room S120
Numerous health workers and evangelists have conducted mission trips in developing countries. Though benefits have been realized by many African communities, some were short-lived and not sustainable. Once the mission team leaves, the communities are left unattended, with little or no support. This project strives to develop an operating model for sustainable mission trips. A health assessment at Kihurio village in Tanzania was conducted using participatory research in December 2017, followed by a visit in December 2021. This project focuses on preventing diseases using lifestyle changes followed by an in-depth investigation and provision of health care by local providers. Research, evangelism, and health care were the main components in 2021. Results of participatory research in 2017 found that at least 50% of the participants had hypertension. Focus group discussions of men and women also showed that among perceived health problems were blood pressure, back pain, water and sanitation, cancers, and gynecological problems. The grassroots approach showed more participation from the community and exhibited community’s sense of ownership of the project. The results of the two visits will be used to develop sustainable health programs. A second follow-up visit is planned for December 2022.
Comments
Breakout Session