Eliminating ghost workers and optimizing resources to strengthen Community Health Worker programs in sub-Saharan Africa

PLoS Medicine 2026 Open access

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Authors: Temesgen Ayehu, Josiah F. Joekai., Mulbah K. Yorgbor, Edleen T. Clark, George P. Jacobs, Christine E. Brooks-Jarrett, S. Olasford Wiah, Sagnon Fatoumata, Moussa Dialo, Loue Dékwinzou Frederic, Brima Osaio Kamara, Christine E. E. Williams
+10 more Mohamed S. T. Kamara, Matthew Beckhio, Adamou A. Marcelin, Noella Claire Mbrenga, Bawene Edouard, Sebakunzi Theirry, Emery Hezagira, Theophile Dushime, Hudad Barry, Haileyesus Getahun
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004929
Cited by: 0
References: 17

Abstract

Although community health workers (CHWs) play a vital role in filling health workforce gaps, they remain inadequately compensated due to insufficient domestic financing. In this Policy Forum article, Temesgen Ayehu and colleagues discuss how elimination of ghost workers and healthcare reform in Sub-Saharan Africa can release funds to properly pay and integrate CHWs into civil service programs.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Global Health Workforce Issues Healthcare Systems and Reforms Healthcare Systems and Practices

Publication details

Journal / source
PLoS Medicine
Volume
23
Issue
2
Pages
e1004929–e1004929
Publication date
17 February 2026
Language
EN