Preparing Health Systems for Climate-Driven Threats
Climate change is a public health emergency. From malaria spreading to new regions to heat stress overwhelming clinics, African health systems are under unprecedented strain.
AFRIHECOM works to strengthen health systems by integrating climate data, training frontline workers, and using communication to prevent, prepare, and respond.
Key Focus Areas:
Climate-Health Surveillance:Â Integrating climate data into disease forecasting (e.g., malaria, dengue).
Resilient Infrastructure:Â Ensuring health facilities can operate during and after climate disasters.
 Worker Training: Equipping frontline health workers with knowledge on climate-related health risks.
Heat Action Plans:Â Supporting governments to develop and implement plans to protect citizens from extreme heat.
Overview
Health systems must withstand climate threats like heatwaves, vector-borne diseases, and pollution. Weak systems leave millions at risk.
What We Do
AFRIHECOM strengthens early warning systems, integrates climate-health data, and supports policies that make clinics, hospitals, and outreach services climate-ready.
How Communication Fits In
We translate scientific data into accessible guidance for health workers and communities, ensuring preparedness and timely action.
âś… Climate-Health Surveillance
We help counties develop early warning systems that link weather data with disease outbreaks (e.g., malaria, cholera, dengue).
âś… Frontline Worker Training
We train nurses, community health workers, and pharmacists to recognize and respond to climate-sensitive conditions — like heatstroke, malnutrition, and eco-anxiety.
âś… Risk Communication & Community Engagement (RCCE)
During health emergencies, we deploy trusted messengers (elders, religious leaders, radio hosts) to deliver accurate, timely information.
âś… Mobile Health & Digital Tools
We develop SMS alert systems and mobile apps that help clinics track climate-related cases and coordinate responses.
“Before, we only reacted to outbreaks. Now we predict them — and save lives.”
— Dr. Elias Wambua, Mombasa County Health Office
- Heat action plans adopted in 3 counties
- 60% faster response to disease outbreaks in pilot areas
- Community trust in health systems strengthened through transparent communication
🌱 Our Approach: Communication as Care
Health resilience starts with information. We use SBCC, community dialogues, and media partnerships to:
- Increase public awareness of climate-health risks
- Reduce stigma around mental health and climate stress
- Ensure policies reflect community needs
“A well-informed community is the first line of defense.”
Contact
-
Ring Rd Parklands,
Nairobi Kenya -
+254 723209302
+256 723209302 - info@afrihecom.org enquire@info@afrihecom.org
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