ETUDE DES DETERMINANTS DE LA PARTICIPATION COMMUNAUTAIRE DANS LE DEPISTAGE ACTIF DE LA TRYPANOSOMIASE HUMAINE AFRICAINE DANS LA ZONE DE SANTE RURALE DE SAMBA, PROVINCE DU MANIEMA, REPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the sociodemographic and sociocultural determinants of community participation in active screening for Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) in the Samba Rural Health Zone. Data were collected from community health workers (CHWs) using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge relating to HAT as well as participation in active screening activities. Statistical analyzes were based on descriptive statistics and the chi-square test (χ²), with a significance threshold set at p < 0.05.

The results show that 62.7% of CHWs actively participated in community mobilization in favor of active HAT screening. This participation varied significantly according to several sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics, reflecting the existence of inequalities in community engagement. Higher participation was observed among men, people aged 28 to 37, those with secondary or higher education as well as individuals belonging to medium or high socioeconomic status (p < 0.05).

In conclusion, community participation in active HAT screening in the Samba Rural Health Zone remains moderate and influenced by various sociodemographic and sociocultural factors. Strengthening community engagement strategies that are inclusive, gender-sensitive and adapted to local realities appears essential to improve community buy-in and accelerate progress towards eliminating HAT as a public health problem by 2030, in accordance with WHO objectives.