Igniting Collective Power: Launching the CCG Community of Practice for Universal Health Coverage
Author: Vrishali Shekhar, Global Focal Point for Country Engagement and Country Core Group Activities
The journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is rarely linear—it’s a shared path shaped by collaboration, resilience, and mutual learning. With the virtual launch of the Country Core Group (CCG) Community of Practice (CoP), the Joint Learning Network for Universal Health Coverage (JLN) introduced a dynamic new platform to unite countries in their collective pursuit of health for all.
Global health leaders from across the JLN came together for the launch, driven by a common goal: to transform shared learning into stronger, more equitable health systems. The CCG CoP is not just a new initiative but the beginning of a vibrant movement, where we are attempting to redefine how we learn, collaborate, and take action for universal health coverage.”
A Catalyst for Change
CCGs are the pulse of the JLN, bridging global insights with local action. Comprising diverse stakeholders—ministries, insurers, academia, and civil society—they drive UHC reforms by adapting knowledge to unique country contexts.
The CoP launch surfaced key ingredients that underpin successful CCGs:
- Diversity – The most effective CCGs bring together a wide range of voices, ensuring that every reform reflects the realities on the ground.
- Strong Coordination- Dedicated leadership and open communication help turn learning into action.
- Resource Mobilization – Success depends on more than funding; it requires expertise, partnerships, and commitment.
- Peer Learning – The most powerful solutions emerge when countries learn directly from each other’s experiences.
Despite their promise, CCGs often face significant hurdles -governance gaps, limited resources, and coordination challenges that slow down the process of harnessing benefits from JLN membership. The CCG CoP was created to address these issues head-on, offering a vibrant space to:
- Share technical updates and country experiences.
- Forge strategic partnerships and collaborations.
- Strengthen governance to enhance CCG effectiveness and sustainability.
- Connect countries to broader learning opportunities within the JLN.
The launch reaffirmed that the CoP is a community built by and for its members—a network where everyone contributes and learns from one another. This platform came into being because countries demanded a space to exchange real-world solutions, tackle shared challenges, and accelerate progress. Here, every member is both a contributor and a beneficiary—empowered to drive change at home and inspired by the successes of peers.
From Challenges to Champions: Lessons from the Field
The launch event was rich with honest reflections and inspiring stories. CCG chairs from Ghana, Kenya, Mongolia and Vietnam shared their journeys—narratives of innovation, perseverance, and transformation.
Participants spoke candidly about the realities they face: the need for active engagement, the importance of clear governance structures, and the critical role of both financial and human resources. Yet, these stories were not just about obstacles—they were about breakthroughs. Countries have used JLN tools to reform policies, strengthen health systems, and even influence national legislation. The message was clear: when knowledge is shared, impact multiplies.
As Dr Phuong, Vietnam CCG chair, emphasized, “Participation in this CoP isn’t optional—it’s essential. This is how we strengthen our systems and serve our people better.”
Looking Ahead: Turning Energy into Action
The launch marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter—but the real work lies ahead.
In the coming months, members will co-create the CoP’s governance structure, define shared priorities, and shape a collective charter that reflects their vision for learning and leadership. Regular virtual sessions will sustain momentum, while an in-person convening in early 2026 will deepen relationships and foster collaboration.
As Ebrahim Ali Al Nawaktha, Steering Group Convener and CCG Chair, Bahrain, mentioned, “Our success will come from open dialogue, mutual support, and collective problem-solving.”
To every CCG CoP member: your voice, your ideas, and your actions will shape the future of UHC. Together, we are not aiming to establish a model for innovation and collaboration.
With profound gratitude to our esteemed Speakers and CCG Chairs, whose invaluable contributions have been instrumental in the successful launch of the CCG CoP:
- Ebrahim Ali Al Nawaktha, Steering Group Convener and CCG Chair, Bahrain
- Dinash Aravind, Steering Group Co-convener, Malaysia
- Ali Ghufron Mukti, Steering Group Co-convener and CCG Chair, Indonesia
- Lydia Dsane-Selby, Ex-Steering Group Co-convener, Ex-CCG Chair, Ghana
- Adolfo Martinez Valle, Steering Group Convener, Ex-Steering Group Co-convener, CCG Chair, Mexico
- Modupe Ogundimu, Ex-Steering Group Convener, Nigeria
- Samson Kuhora, CCG Chair, Kenya
- Nguyen Khanh Phuong, CCG Chair, Vietnam
- Anthony Ofosu, CCG Chair, Ghana
- Oyuntsetseg Purev, CCG Chair, Mongolia