Health education and Communication Department
To improve the health knowledge, attitudes, and practices of individuals and communities through evidence-based health education, strategic communication, and behavior change interventions that promote healthy lifestyles, prevent diseases, and improve health outcomes.
Vision
To build a healthy and informed society where individuals and communities make informed health decisions, adopt healthy behaviors, and actively participate in improving public health.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement health education and communication strategies aligned with regional health priorities, national policies, and community health needs.
Prepare annual health education and communication plans to support disease prevention, health promotion, and improved utilization of essential health services.
Design, produce, and disseminate culturally appropriate health education materials through print, audiovisual, digital, and other communication channels.
Coordinate public health awareness campaigns addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, nutrition, immunization, hygiene, sanitation, and other priority health issues.
Promote social and behavior change communication to encourage healthy practices and address harmful behaviors affecting community health.
Strengthen community participation by engaging health extension workers, community leaders, schools, religious institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.
Coordinate risk communication and community engagement during disease outbreaks and public health emergencies, ensuring timely and accurate information reaches affected communities.
Collaborate with media organizations to disseminate reliable health information, counter misinformation, and improve public understanding of health services.
Conduct community assessments to identify health information gaps, communication needs, cultural barriers, and behavioral challenges.
Build the capacity of health professionals and communication personnel in health education, interpersonal communication, community mobilization, and public awareness.
Promote digital health communication through official websites, social media platforms, and other appropriate digital channels.
Monitor and evaluate communication activities using performance indicators to assess audience reach, knowledge improvement, behavioral change, and program effectiveness.
Document best practices, lessons learned, and successful communication approaches to support continuous improvement.
Coordinate with government institutions, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and private-sector stakeholders to mobilize resources and strengthen communication initiatives.
Provide technical advice to bureau leadership and health program managers on health promotion, strategic communication, community engagement, and public health awareness.
Kamaria Ismael Ayele
Health education and Communication Dep't