Co-designing for impact: Lessons in Community-Driven Research

The Zimbabwe Qualitative Research Network (ZQRN) recently hosted an engaging discussion on Community-Based Participatory Implementation Science Research, featuring Chipo Mpandaguta, Cuthbert Sekanevana, and Fadzai Mhino.

The trio shared how CBP-ISR brings researchers and communities together as equal partners to design and deliver health solutions. Drawing from their experiences in the Com-BP and KOSHESAI studies, they demonstrated how involving communities at every stage—from identifying priorities to leading activities—resulted in high engagement, improved health outcomes, and community-led initiatives that continue beyond the life of the projects.

CBP-ISR combines the strengths of Community-Based Participatory Research (emphasizing shared learning and ownership) with Implementation Science (embedding interventions into real-world settings). This approach ensures that health solutions are not only evidence-based but also culturally relevant, equitable, and sustainable.

As they noted, "When communities and researchers collaborate as equals, sustainable and impactful solutions emerge."

The session sparked thoughtful dialogue and renewed commitment to centering communities in research for sustainable and meaningful change.

Presenters share experiences and insights on co-designing impactful, community-led health interventions.