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Abstract

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play an increasingly important role in complementing government efforts to improve access to and quality of health services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. However, limited empirical attention has been given to the strategic approaches through which CSOs contribute to health service improvement in Tanzania. This study explored the strategic approaches employed by the Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT) to improve health services in Tanzania. The study adopted a qualitative approach and a descriptive research design. Twenty respondents were purposively and conveniently selected from a study population of 100 participants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and documentary review and analysed thematically. The findings identified several strategic approaches that contributed to improved health service delivery, including the Fistula Programme, outreach services, capacity-building programmes, Maternal and Newborn Health Care initiatives, the MABINTI rehabilitation programme, and the use of community ambassadors. These approaches enhanced access to specialised health services, strengthened the capacity of health workers and community actors, facilitated patient identification and referral, and addressed physical, social, mental, and economic dimensions of patients’ wellbeing. The findings further demonstrated that effective management and leadership, alignment of organisational strategies with government health priorities, and active involvement of beneficiaries and stakeholders were critical to programme implementation and sustainability. The study concludes that an integrated and participatory strategic approach can significantly strengthen the contribution of CSOs to health service improvement. It recommends enhanced stakeholder collaboration, sustained investment in capacity building, community outreach, and mechanisms for meaningful beneficiary participation in health programme planning and implementation.

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