[Community participation in health promotion: an experience from hygiene and sanitation committees in the district of Touba (Senegal)]. / Participation communautaire et promotion de la santé: l'expérience des comités d'hygiène et de salubrité du district de Touba (Sénégal).

This qualitative exploratory study carried out in November 2000 describes and analyzes health promotion by community participation in the health district of Touba, in Senegal. The committees were primarily made up of women with an implication of local religious authorities which represented the moral responsible. The promotional activities regularly carried out were: health education, distribution of insecticide treated nets, police in waste management and hygiene, and cleaning. Theses activities were supported through the development of income generating activities. The success of the communities is based on the favorable socio-religious environment, strengthened by the particular commitment of the women. The diversity of activities undertaken by the committees is a proof that the identification of people's needs was not limited to health care questions. The community leadership was stimulated by the district, to enhance the dynamics of participation. The financial autonomy of the majority of communities is a guarantee of their sustainability within the district health system. Extremely encouraging results obtained, two essential recommendations were made to strengthen the experience of sanitation committees in health promotion.