Resource Library

Advancing Commercial Sector Involvement in Reproductive Health in West Africa

West African countries account for many of the world's poorest health and development indicators. Key reproductive health (RH) indicators, such as maternal mortality and contraceptive prevalence, are particularly worrisome. Recognition is growing that public and international financing of RH efforts are insufficient, suggesting a need for commercial sector participation. Business involvement in health, one aspect of corporate social responsibility (CSR), is slowly growing in sub-Saharan Africa, as evidenced by the emergence of HIV/AIDS workplace programs and community initiatives. CSR efforts, together with best practices in reproductive health, can help extend health services through business involvement. However, little has been documented on commercial sector involvement in RH in West Africa, particularly among smaller companies. A survey of West African companies was conducted by the Action for West Africa Region Reproductive Health and Child Survival Project (AWARE-RH) to add to the limited body of knowledge on business involvement in health in the region. A range of companies responded, including multinational companies and locally owned businesses. Companies were asked about their CSR practices in health, including support for community programs and workplace programs. Findings indicate that overall, multinational companies are more involved in CSR health efforts, both in the community and at the workplace, than are smaller companies. Many businesses are involved to some degree in community health initiatives, through donations of money, supplies, or staff time. In terms of workplace programs, the majority of companies offers health insurance for their employees, and is likely to include at least some RH services. Many companies are involved in HIV prevention and treatment programs, providing a potential basis for integrating broader RH services. Smaller companies express an interest in increasing their involvement in health, but request assistance in developing partnerships with other small firms, local NGOs, or government to defray costs. Despite challenges in quantifying CSR efforts, businesses are increasingly measuring progress and reporting results of their health programs. Targeted approaches for increasing business involvement in RH are called for, based on the size and reach of the company.