Rote Ndao: A Step Toward Professionalizing Community Health Workers

If George Orwell had written about modern public health, he might have described community health workers (CHWs) as the silent backbone of society—essential yet overlooked. For years, CHWs have worked tirelessly without adequate recognition or support. In Rote Ndao, however, this is changing, thanks to a collaboration led by the 1000 Days Fund.

With the issuance of Regent Regulation No. 68 of 2024, Rote Ndao has become the first district in Indonesia to professionalize its CHWs. This policy, facilitated and advocated for by the 1000 Days Fund, represents a pivotal moment in strengthening primary healthcare at the grassroots level. It ensures that the voices of 2,100 CHWs are heard, paving the way for systemic change.

Key benefits of the new policy include:

1. ⁠Guaranteed Incentives: CHWs will receive regular stipends, providing financial stability.
2. Standardized Service Tenure: An 8-year term formalizes their role in community health.
3. Regular Training: CHWs will undergo at least three training sessions annually to enhance their skills.
4. Integrated Mentorship: Village governments and health centers will offer support, fostering a collaborative system.

This policy is expected to directly improve the health of 12,526 children in Rote Ndao, addressing stunting, malnutrition, and maternal and infant mortality. The 1000 Days Fund played a critical role in advocating for the policy and engaging local governments to bring it to life.

The 1000 Days Fund aims to replicate this model across Indonesia, empowering local health systems and improving maternal and child health outcomes nationwide.

For too long, CHWs in Indonesia have been overlooked and underfunded. Rote Ndao’s new policy, guided by the 1000 Days Fund, acknowledges their critical role and ensures they are no longer overlooked. This initiative isn’t just about healthcare—it’s about justice and recognition.