The Technical Working Group (TWG) of Edo State Social and Behavior Change/Advocacy Communication, and Sociel Mobilizetion Committee (SBCACSMC), has vowed to intensify effort to promote positive behaviors by the citizens through development of good communication strategies.
The Chairman of TWG, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, stated this at the orientation meeting of the Committee, held in Benin, the State capital on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
He explained that SAC/ACSMC TWG, a multi-sectoral platform, has the core mandate to provide a supportive environment which will enable people to initiate and sustain positive behaviors.
To achieve this, Alenkhe disclosed that members of the TWG will lead, coordinate and support impactful incisive and culturally sensitive social and behavior, as well as empower individuals, families and communites across the State to adopt healthy behaviors and improve outcomes in reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH).
He, therefore, called for consistent advocacy visits by members, increased public engagement, and regular meetings to enhance impact.
Also speaking, the Edo State Health Promotion Officer, Ministry of Health, Dr. Hitler Deyinye, who doubles as the TWG Secretary, emphasized the need for members to gain a clear understanding of the group’s goals, which he noted, will help them to effectively advocate for behaviour change communication efforts.
According to him, the group’s core strategies include advocacy through mass media, social media, social mobilization, peer and interpersonal communication (use of banners, posters) and mid-media.
He reiterated the group’s role in guiding ongoing state-wide mobilizations to achieve effective health outcomes.
Dr. Deyinye while presenting an overview of SBCC, explained its focus on addressing environmental and behavioral factors affecting public health.
Various members present expressed support and readiness for increased collaboration and inclusion of more stakeholders in future activities.
The meeting was attended by representatives from Edo State Ministry of Heath, State Primary Heath Care Development Agency, National Orientation Agency (NOA), medie organizations (radio, print and digital), The Challenge Initiative (TCI) and other organizations.
