7 ways to build back better in Gaza
Jennifer Dabis, Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Manager at the Palestinian NGO, Juzoor for Health and Social Development, was recently at KIT Institute for the ‘Uniting Knowledge, Resources and Solidarity – Gaza Health Initiative Conference’.
At the conference, Jennifer, who is currently responsible for monitoring of all emergency and non-emergency projects for Juzoor, spoke at the plenary session ‘From Theory to action’ that aimed to translate the theoretical discussions of the day into practical implications and discuss the operationalisation of recommendations and priorities.
When we asked her what is needed to ensure local engagement, alignment and maximize impact on the ground, Jennifer shared these 7 key points to build back better in Gaza.
- Strengthen Local Partnerships: it is crucial to empower Palestinian organisations to respond effectively to the evolving situation. Local NGOs, rooted in Gaza’s realities, are key to delivering interventions that are effective, relevant, and sustainable. International organizations should continue their interventions, but with a commitment to partnering with and supporting local Palestinian organisations.
- Follow the lead of local organisations: while they may have more freedom of movement, the role of international organisations should complement—not replace—the leadership of local organisations in coordination with the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Investing in the capacity of local healthcare providers is vital. This not only enhances their skills and knowledge but also empowers communities to take ownership of their development and build resilience for the future.
- Leverage Local Resources and Knowledge: let us harness local resources, knowledge, and experience and create solutions that are both effective and sustainable, grounded in the realities of Gaza.
- The Youth are Our Future: we must actively involve women, youth, and marginalised groups in decision-making processes to foster ownership and accountability. Youth is the future. We must trust and empower them to carry this mission forward. Taking into consideration vulnerabilities in locations and target populations.
- Enhance Networks and Coordination: establishing strong communication channels among all stakeholders—local authorities, NGOs, UN agencies, and community members—is essential. Transparent and regular feedback is needed to adapt strategies based on real-time needs and challenges.
- Evidence-Based Interventions: understanding the needs on the ground requires robust evidence. We need ongoing assessments and research to inform our actions. Here, partners like KIT can provide invaluable support, given their expertise and experience in the region.
- Building Back Better: while the situation is dire, we must build back better. Instead of restoring what was lost, we should rethink the entire healthcare system – restructuring and reimagining a system that serves the needs of Gaza today and in the future. The only way forward for Gaza’s health system is to develop a resilient model that fits its unique context.
