CMF uses CHE in both rural and urban settings. The teams have found the CHE principles to be effective in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and Nairobi. Research is ongoing on using these methods in urban centers in Latin America and Asia, as well. CMF teams use CHE with rural people also, such as the Gumuz of western Ethiopia
What is CHE?
Disease, poor living conditions and sanitation are overwhelming issues in Nairobi, Kenya, but there are workable solutions to these heath problems. One strategy that has been successful in many countries is Community Health Evangelism, or CHE (pronounced “chay”). The primary goal of CHE is to teach people how to do things for themselves with the resources they have, integrating physical and spiritual ministries.
CHE often includes instruction on hygiene, clean water, safe cooking, latrines, healthcare, and other basic life care issues. Communities are also instructed on HIV/AIDS prevention and care.
A significant trend in Nairobi has been groups from the nine slum areas coming together for CHE training. Many have come to Christ through the training, as well as when the communities begin to clean up and promote holistic health. The impact has been so great that church leaders ask for CHE training so they can care for new believers.
Want to know what can happen when CHE is introduced in a West African community? Read an amazing story.
