Effective Community Engagement in One Health Research in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review synthesizes empirical evidence on community engagement (CE) in One Health research in Sub-Saharan Africa, an approach linking human, animal, and environmental health. It identifies limited but meaningful engagement practices, such as community mobilization and capacity building, and discusses barriers including low research literacy, language differences, and contextual disparities. The review highlights best practices and the importance of centering communities in One Health research to improve health outcomes and responses to zoonotic disease threats.