Community engagement in global health research: case studies from the developing world—the Zomba District, Malawi case study

Community engagement influences the success of research. Investigators conducting international research necessitate an understanding of effective practices in community engagement. This case study examines the practice of community engagement in Zomba District, Malawi as part of a larger multiple case studies design with the objective of elucidating global practices of community engagement. Poverty and disease are widespread in Malawi. Dignitas International, an academic NGO, implemented a community home-based care model for HIV/AIDS services including an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) community engagement component in Zomba in 2004. This research is based on the analysis of 26 interviews with key informants affiliated with the Dignitas IEC program. The success of the IEC program is influenced by a perception of community ownership and assurance the program can be sustained. Maintenance of the IEC program is dependent on financial, technical, and motivational support for those carrying out IEC activities.