Table 1 Main characteristics of RHM programme

• Over 5 000 RHMs in the country (majority female)

• The programme aims to reach every household in the country

• RHMs are chosen by community leaders and work in their home communities

• MoH gives a monthly stipend of 350 Swazi Emalangeni (approximately US$ 24)

• The programme stipulates working hours of 2.5 days per week

• Main RHM responsibilities:

 o Visiting homesteads/households

 o Referrals to health facilities

 o Health education on hygiene, nutrition, antenatal care, immunisation and HIV/TB

 o Community-based growth monitoring

 o First aid