Refugees learn better hygiene through talking book device.

In August 2017, a new electronic device called the “Talking Book” emerged in Mahama Refugee Camp. This innovative communication tool was developed by Literacy Bridge, an American Company and introduced to Rwanda in collaboration with the Centre for Behaviour Change and Communication (CBCC). Being used for the first time in a Refugee Camp setting, the “Talking Books” were integrated as a pilot project in Mahama Camp to reinforce UNICEF’s Communication for Development (C4D) program which is implemented by GHDF. This program aims to encourage positive health-related behavior change among the population by sensitizing them to Key family practices. These practices are all related to hygiene, sanitation and disease prevention.


Group photo during the visit of H.E the Ambassador of Japan to Rwanda Mr. TAKAYUKI Miyashita.

Previously, the Hygiene Promoters and Community Health Workers(CHW) taking part in the C4D program were trained to share various health messages as they conducted their daily door-to-door visits, during village meetings, and mass mobilizations. Furthermore, Community Hygiene Clubs have been established in every village, meeting on weekly basis to discuss various health-related issues, and creating songs, dances and theatrical performances to sensitize the population.


A CHW(Community health worker) trained by GHDF playing messages during door to door visit.

The “Talking Books” are small, light and colorful square devices operated with a few control buttons in order to navigate through the several pre-recorded messages and songs that can be heard through the internal speaker. The messages are divided in different categories and the main themes are : breastfeeding, Immunization, Diarrhea, Malaria, Hygiene and Sanitation, Menstrual Hygiene and HIV Prevention. This tool also gives the possibility to record user feedback, which is essential to evaluate the level of appreciation from the refugees.

After being trained on how to use the “Talking Books”, GHDF Hygiene Promoters went on to train the 360 CHWs working in Mahama Refugee camp. Every morning, the CHWs come to GHDF’s office to collect their Talking Book and to be informed on which message to play during their door to door visits.


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