In September, the Capacity Project’s Dr. Pamela McQuide participated in the East, Central and Southern Africa Directors’ Joint Consultative Committee Meeting to share the use and results of human resources information systems (HRIS) in the region.

She emphasized the need for accurate and timely data to make informed decisions about the health sector. Delegates from Swaziland and Uganda publicly lauded the Capacity Project’s HRIS work.

Swaziland’s chief nursing officer commented, “I use the database every day. I am no longer confused about where the nurses work, and it is up to date.” A resolution resulting from the meeting included a recommendation for member countries to develop a comprehensive HRIS and ensure the use of data to inform policy and improve HR management.

October 2008