Has stakeholder participation in health facility governing committees promoted social accountability? A qualitative study in Tanzania

Abstract

The HFGCs in Tanzania have faced challenges in promoting social accountability due to weak stakeholder participation. Key issues include limited awareness of HFGCs, inadequate mobilization, and insufficient training, supervision, and guidelines from district councils. Additionally, flawed election processes, leadership interference, lack of political support, and limited financial resources undermined the committees' effectiveness. To improve engagement, district councils should enhance stakeholder sensitization, build HFGC capacity, ensure that facilities allocate 5% of their budgets for committee activities, monitor performance, and encourage local government support for HFGCs.