Harnessing Health Information as a Tool for Poverty Alleviation

Abstract

Sierra Leone is at the bottom of the human development ladder and many Sierra Leoneans live in abject poverty. They are deprived of the basic necessities: food, access to safe drinking water, health, and education. Socio-economic conditions are deplorable, especially for those living in rural areas where the majority are illiterate and steeped in culture and tradition. For the country to develop and poverty to be alleviated, the health and well being of the people must improve considerably; health information could help to achieve this. This paper outlines ways in which health information is being used to help achieve a healthier population. Since the results so far have been mixed, it suggests some ways in which linking health information to behavioural change could be improved.

Key Words:

• Sierra Leone poverty
• health information
• librarians