Evidence, Analysis and Advocacy for Equity- The Perspective of the Malawi Health Equity Network

Abstract

This paper presents a synopsis of experiences of Malawi Health Equity Network, in its work to deepen the evidence and strengthen the platform for civic participation in the promotion of equitable health services in Malawi. The Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN) is a non-profit independent alliance of Civil Society Organizations and other interested parties promoting equity and quality in health for all people in Malawi, by influencing policy and practice, through research, monitoring, information dissemination, advocacy and civic education. MHEN's vision is for “All people in Malawi to have access to equitable, quality and responsive essential health care services by the year 2020 with Malawi Health Equity Network as the ‘Health Equity Watch'.”

MHEN was formed in 2000 when the Health Advocacy Network and Malawi EQUINET merged, since both organizations had similar goals and objectives. The Network is legally registered under the laws of Malawi. MHEN seeks to address health inequalities that are avoidable and unfair. In line with this, the Network activities are geared towards influencing redistribution of social resources, which include skilled human resources within the Public Health Sector, and the power and ability of people at the grassroots level to make choices over health inputs, thus building their capacity to use these choices to improve their health status.


Malawi Medical Journal Vol. 18 (2) 2006: pp. 53-54