[Re: https://www.hifa.org/dgroups-rss/risk-information-communication-and-comm... ]
Dear Dr. Esha Ray Chaudhuri,
Thank you for this thoughtful and important reflection.
I fully agree that the effectiveness of Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) depends not only on what we communicate, but also on how concepts such as “risk,” “communication,” “community,” and “engagement” are understood within different social, cultural, economic and health-system contexts.
The comments you provided about the assumptions and values embedded in these concepts is particularly significant for addressing health inequities. In humanitarian and conflict settings, these dimensions can determine whose knowledge is recognised, whose voices are heard, who is considered vulnerable, and whose priorities shape interventions.
I am in alignment with your call to broaden RCCE thinking beyond acute outbreaks and emergencies to include NCDs and the wider determinants of health. An equitable RCCE framework should therefore be people-centred, context-sensitive, culturally responsive and grounded in meaningful community participation.
It is my considered opinion that, the next frontier is to move from “communication to communities” toward “co-creation with communities”—recognising communities not merely as recipients of risk information, but as partners and knowledge-holders in defining risks, identifying solutions and shaping sustainable health and care systems.
Nevertheless, your contribution reinforces the need for a truly global, equity-oriented RCCE agenda.
Thank you for advancing this important conversation.
Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje
Abuja, Nigeria, West Africa
HIFA profile: Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje is a leading voice in health education, community health, and advocacy, with decades of experience advancing people-centered development across Africa and beyond. His approach to health education emphasizes participatory learning, knowledge transfer, and behavior change communication, ensuring that individuals and communities gain the skills and awareness to make informed decisions about their health. He develops and delivers innovative health promotion strategies tailored to local realities, particularly in resource-limited settings. In community health, Dr. Adirieje has championed integrated primary health care, preventive medicine, and grassroots health initiatives. Through Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA), which he leads, he connects civil society, community groups, and health institutions to strengthen healthcare delivery, tackle health inequities, and improve access to essential services for vulnerable populations. His work addresses infectious diseases, maternal and child health, nutrition, climate and health, environmental health, and emerging public health challenges. As a passionate advocate, Dr. Adirieje works with governments, NGOs, and international organizations to influence health policy, mobilize resources, and promote sustainable development goals (SDGs). He amplifies community voices, ensuring that health systems are inclusive, accountable, and responsive. His advocacy extends beyond health to governance, environment, and social justice, positioning him as a multidisciplinary leader shaping healthier and more equitable societies. afrepton AT gmail.com