Dako-Gyeke, P.Hornuvo, R.Glozah, F.N.Asampong, E.Tabong, P.T-N.Nwameme, A.Chandi, G.M.Peprah, N.Y.Gittelman, D.Adongo, P.B.2023-09-122023-09-122023Dako-Gyeke P, Hornuvo R, Glozah FN, Asampong E, Tabong PT-N, Nwameme A, Chandi GM, Peprah NY, Gittelman D and Adongo PB (2023) Pilot implementation of community health advocacy teams to improve the edoi: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1133151http://ugspace.ug.edu.gh:8080/handle/123456789/39965Research ArticleIntroduction: In Ghana, the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) distributes long-lasting insecticide net (LLIN) to households for free through the periodic point mass distribution (PMD) campaign and continuous distribution to populations most vulnerable to malaria. Methods: A qualitative research approach was used among 43 CHAT members across six communities in the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana. The CHAT constitutes significant community actors whose roles are centred on key elements of community/social mobilisation and capacity building, all nested in social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) strategies. The CHATs were pilot implemented in all study communities for 4 months after which we identified opportunities and barriers during implementation. CHAT members participated in six focus group discussions which were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically using the NVivo 13. Results: CHATs were instrumental in sensitising community members through SBCC strategies. Moreover, there were changes in the behaviour of community members who were receptive towards and participated in CHAT activities. Community members were accurately informed about malaria (e.g., causes and preventive measures). However, the CHAT experienced barriers during implementation, including a lack of financial support to aid in transportation, organisation of meetings, and outreach activities. Additionally, the level of participation by CHAT members in activities and the medium of communication among members were key areas of concern. Conclusion: The CHATs would be instrumental in promoting LLINs’ use during and after PMD campaigns through community outreaches. It is therefore necessary to provide resources to support their operations and a good network to address communication barriers. Finally, continuous capacity strengthening of CHAT members by the NMCP is important.encommunity health advocacy teamimplementation researchinterventionGhanaMalariaArticle