Health Impact of Community Self-Help Projects on the Overall Health of The People of Khana Local Government Area: A Survey of Communities in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria (2013 – 2024)
The idea of self-help and communal assistance which forms the basis of the present-day community and rural development among the rural dwellers is deeply rooted in the rich traditions of the African. This study investigated the health impact of community self-help projects on the overall health of the people: a survey of communities in Khana Local Government Area (2013 – 2024). This study employed descriptive survey design with a purposive sampling technique. The target population was One hundred and ninety-six (196) community members. The sample size was one hundred and sixty-nine (169) representing 86% of target population, selected using the purposive sampling technique. Participants were interviewed and questionnaires were distributed to elicit usable information. Survey of community self-help projects were carried out. For reliability, test-retest method was adopted at Eteo community in Eleme LGA, which was outside the LGA under study. Collated and analyzed data using Cronbach Alpha gave index of 0.80 instrument reliability. The questionnaires were administered and later retrieved from the respective villages. The data collected were presented using mean, and z-test at 0.05 level of significance. The result showed that to high extent, constructed road network led to improved access to health facilities (M = 2.97), enhanced transport of clean water, foods and healthcare supplies (M = 3.07) and create more income to enable healthcare to be afforded (M = 3.18). Prevention of burns and poisoning had a mean rating of 2.59, while SD is 0.90. Improved safety and reduced injuries showed mean rating of 2.80, while SD is 0.94. Extended hours for health services had a mean rating of 3.15. It was concluded that, communities in Khana LGA have been undertaking self-help projects for sometimes. The implication of the finding is that the establishment of community self-help projects has contributed to solving rural problems with the present of facilities constructed road networks, and solar light projects. It was recommended among others that, Stakeholders (government, community and development partners) should improve on the existing roads network to enable patients and emergency cases quick access to health centers in the rural communities.
Keywords: Health, Impact, Self-Help Projects, Khana LGA.

