Covid-19-Brochure

COVID-19 Resources Co-created With Communities

At the start of the pandemic, Tostan worked with partner communities and health experts to produce clear information in local languages. These tools helped thousands of families understand the virus and protect themselves. They remain available for anyone supporting community learning today.

Tostan created two open-source booklets to provide rural communities with accurate information on COVID-19. The materials were developed with health specialists and local leaders to reflect daily realities, social norms, and trusted sources of guidance.

This booklet explains how COVID-19 spreads, key symptoms to watch for, and simple prevention steps adapted to village life. It includes official contact numbers for reliable information and support.

Religious Perspective on Epidemics, Pandemics, and Contagious Diseases

Written by Imam Mamadou Chérif Diop, this resource brings together relevant Qur’anic verses and faith-based guidance. It reinforces public health advice and helps communities understand the pandemic through a religious lens.

How these tools supported communities during the pandemic

By December 2020, Tostan printed and shared more than 70,000 copies across hundreds of partner communities in the Gambia, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Mali, and Senegal. Local radio stations helped broadcast the content. Government partners distributed the materials to health and education centers, which strengthened local prevention efforts and supported community-led action.

Languages available

The booklets are available in 15 languages: Bamanankan, Creole, English, French, Fula (Pulaar), Haussa, Igbo, Mandinka, Maninka, Oniyan, Portuguese, Somali, Swahili, Wolof, and Yoruba.

Permissions

You may reprint the booklets for educational or non-commercial use if the content remains unchanged. Any adaptation requires written permission from Tostan. For reproduction requests or printer-ready files, contact info@tostan.org.

These resources reflect Tostan’s long experience in community education and social norms change. They provided timely, life-saving information during COVID-19 and continue to support organizations working with rural communities today.