Healthy Food Choices Matter: VAHA Reaches Over 2,700 People in the Littoral Region
Value Health Africa (VAHA) recently concluded a successful community health education campaign in the Littoral Region of Cameroon For the first Month campain, under the theme:
“Healthy Food Choices Matter – Save the Next Generation. Regulate Unhealthy Foods.”
Held from July 27 to August 21, 2025, and supported by RADA, this campaign aimed to raise public awareness on the dangers of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods and to promote informed, healthy food choices across diverse communities.
Community Outreach in Action
In collaboration with health educator TITCHO Velvis, VAHA conducted field activities in 12 different locations, including schools, churches, neighborhoods, and community events. Despite logistical challenges such as heavy rains, limited access to some venues, and language barriers, the team adapted strategies to maintain impactful communication and engagement.
By the end of the campaign, 2,759 individuals had been directly reached through small group discussions, public talks, interactive Q&A sessions, and home visits. The audience included students, parents, teachers, young leaders, internally displaced persons, and religious communities.
“The goal was not just to inform but to empower people with practical knowledge to make better food decisions for themselves and their families,” said VAHA field educator TITCHO Velvis.
Topics Covered
The campaign addressed several critical areas related to food and health:
- The difference between healthy and unhealthy foods
- Health risks of consuming ultra-processed products (high in sugar, fat, salt, and additives)
- Links between poor diet and chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions
- The importance of taxation and food regulation to limit harmful food products in the market
- Local solutions such as starting home gardens, reading food labels, and regular physical activity
The sessions were enriched by the participation of a nutritionist and a Member of Parliament working on health-related taxation policies, adding depth and credibility to the discussions.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
The campaign faced several challenges including:
- Weather disruptions due to rain
- Refusals or delays in institutional access
- Language and material limitations (with most flyers only available in French)
In response, VAHA adapted its strategy by conducting post-event discussions, using oral translations, and engaging community members to support messaging in local dialects.
Key lessons for future campaigns included the need for:
- Bilingual educational materials
- Advance authorization from institutions
Flexible communication formats suited to informal or time-limited settings
A Path Forward
This campaign reinforced VAHA’s belief that field-based health education is a powerful tool for behavior change. Community members responded positively, raising insightful questions about local food products, the impact of taxes, and how to improve school canteen menus.
“Healthy food choices today protect the next generation. When communities are informed, change becomes possible.”
As VAHA continues its mission to build healthier communities, this campaign stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and grassroots engagement.
📍 Location: Littoral Region, Cameroon
📆 Campaign Period: July 27 – August 21, 2025
📬 For more information or to support our health education initiatives:
Email: contact@valuehealthafrica.org
Website: www.valuehealthafrica.org