September 2024 — In a significant step towards improving humanitarian responses, a cross-border collaborative learning event focused on Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) took place from August 12-15, 2024, in Livingstone, Zambia. This gathering brought together key stakeholders from Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, including representatives from Ministries of Health, UNICEF, WHO, and various academic institutions.

Shared Learning for Effective Responses

The primary goal of the event was to share insights and best practices from national and regional efforts to combat cholera outbreaks. Participants engaged in discussions about their experiences and co-created solutions to common challenges faced during emergency responses. This collaborative approach is expected to pave the way for stronger, more empowered communities.

Community-Centric Data Collection

A major focus of the event was the establishment of rapid evidence-generating systems. These systems are designed to collect community feedback and social data through rapid qualitative assessments (RQAs). Participants shared how RQAs provided critical insights that improved understanding of community needs, enabling tailored communication strategies that address local concerns.

Building National Capacity

The event highlighted the urgent need for training local social scientists and anthropologists. Participants recognized that enhancing local expertise is essential for collecting and analyzing community data effectively. This aligns with a broader agenda to decolonize research practices and ensure that local voices are prioritized in humanitarian efforts.

Sustainable Investment in Social Science

Despite the growing recognition of the importance of social science in emergency responses, there remains a significant gap in sustainable investment. Participants called for the establishment of long-term training programs and funding frameworks to institutionalize social science expertise within humanitarian operations.

Looking Ahead

Key actors from Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have committed to integrating social science experts into their emergency response strategies. This initiative aims to enhance readiness and response efforts, particularly in regions facing increasing climate-related emergencies.

As we move forward, the lessons learned from this event will be crucial in shaping effective, community-centered responses to humanitarian challenges across East and Southern Africa.