Some thoughts on popular participation in the health sector

This paper explores the value and possibility of a greater involvement in promoting popular participation in health and raises questions about the facilitative role of Save the Children Fund (SCF), UK, in this endeavor. Before arguing a case for popular participation in health programmes, the author gives reasons for the need for participation in the health sector based on previous experiences in other sectors. The paper then argues that participatory methods merit consideration in the implementation of health projects despite problems encountered such as social exclusion of marginalised groups, benefits accrued by elites and bureaucratic hurdles faced by beneficiaries and facilitators. The paper concludes by identifying the levels for intervention, offering an assessment of organisational strengths and weaknesses and finally, asking policy questions on the issue which need to be considered.