CHISTRE is dedicated to addressing pressing health, climate change, and immunization challenges through a community-centered and participatory approach. Guided by the principles of the new development paradigm, we recognize the value of traditional knowledge and believe in the capacity of rural populations to organize for sustainable self-reliance.

Our approach prioritizes decentralization and community empowerment, ensuring that local populations actively participate in every stage of the development cycle—from project identification and planning to implementation and evaluation. Internally, we follow a participatory governance model within CHISTRE, promoting collective decision-making and accountability.

Externally, CHISTRE’s role as a “change agent” is focused on building robust community management structures rooted in traditional institutions. These structures empower communities to take ownership of their development and advocate for accountability from leaders, reinforcing confidence in their development choices.

Human resource development is integral to CHISTRE’s mission. By equipping communities with the skills and knowledge needed to address health and environmental challenges, we strengthen their resilience and self-sufficiency. Additionally, CHISTRE actively transforms field insights into valuable knowledge to shape policies and practices among NGOs, donors, and government bodies, supporting our long-term goal of community empowerment and sustainable development