Favour Oriaku, Author at eHealth Africa

Jacaranda partners with eHealth Africa to expand lifesaving PROMPTS support for Nigerian mothers

Posted on September 2, 2024September 3, 2024 by Favour Oriaku

Nigeria has Africa’s largest and fastest-growing population, and contributes 20% of the world’s maternal deaths annually (1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births). In June this year, we secured a partnership with African nonprofit eHealth Africa (eHA) to test our SMS-based digital health tool PROMPTS as a cost-effective and quickly scalable tool to support Nigerian mothers through their pregnancy journey.

The aim of the pilot is to adapt the platform for the Nigerian context and assess its uptake and engagement with 25,000 mothers in Kano State, located in the country’s northern region. Similar to our approach in Kenya, mothers will be consensually enrolled to PROMPTS at health facilities – specifically within the network of public hospitals, health centers, and outreach clinics under EHA Clinics, eHA’s sister organization.

Over the last few months, Jacaranda has been working to prime PROMPTS for the expansion. We have recently extended our customized Large Language Model (the technology that underpins the PROMPTS helpdesk) to converse in Hausa and Yoruba, ensuring that Nigerian mothers are supported in a language they can understand and act on. We are working to customize the PROMPTS helpdesk to better classify language and context-specific questions from mothers, as well as collect specific data (via SMS surveys) on their experience of care in the facilities they visit.

Meanwhile, we have been adding and adapting messaging content within the platform to align with the local context and increase relevance for mothers in Kano State. Alongside the standard suite gestation stage-specific messaging and appointment reminders, we are introducing content to address specific, yet widespread pregnancy-related myths and misconceptions, alongside malaria-focused content, given the disease’s high prevalence (32.4%) in Kano State. eHA will be gathering further information from Community Health Extension Workers on the needs and experiences of mothers in this setting to inform further messaging adaptations over the coming weeks.

With a successful pilot, our goal is to expand PROMPTS to reach an additional 100,000 Nigerian mothers in the following year and over 1.5 million mothers in the next three years, leveraging eHA’s extensive connections within the Nigerian public health sector to drive sustainable growth for the platform.

“The collaboration between eHealth Africa and Jacaranda in Nigeria has immense potential to further the work already being done to improve maternal and child healthcare in Kano State. By combining Jacaranda’s expertise in digital engagement of moms with EHA’s robust infrastructure and deep understanding of the local landscape, we can create and scale solutions to improve healthcare outcomes for mothers and babies, as well as amplifying women’s voices. This partnership is not just about expanding reach but also about sharing knowledge, fostering innovation, and ultimately, improving health outcomes for moms and babies across Nigeria.” – Rachael Alldian, Director of Global Programs & Product, Jacaranda Health

“At eHealth Africa, we are committed to leveraging technology to bridge healthcare gaps in underserved communities. Our partnership with Jacaranda to implement the PROMPTS platform in Nigeria is a significant step towards achieving this goal. Leveraging our indigenous knowledge and Jacaranda’s digital expertise, we are well-positioned to significantly improve maternal and child health outcomes in Kano State and beyond. We are excited to see how this initiative will improve the lives of countless mothers and their families.” — Atef Fawaz, Executive Director, eHealth Africa

A New Dawn in Blood Supply Management Championed by eHealth Africa

Posted on August 27, 2024August 28, 2024 by Favour Oriaku

By Favour Oriaku

In times of crisis—whether it be a natural disaster, armed conflict, or a large-scale public health emergency—the demand for safe and quality-assured blood and blood products rises dramatically. Ensuring a steady supply of these life-saving resources is crucial to maintaining healthcare systems, saving lives, and preventing further destabilization in an already chaotic environment. Without adequate blood supplies, the consequences can be devastating.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), safe blood saves lives and improves health, but millions of patients requiring transfusion do not have timely access to safe blood. Ensuring the availability of safe blood products is particularly crucial during emergencies. Globally, approximately 118.54 million blood donations are collected each year. However, managing this enormous volume of donations without a streamlined electronic process for collection and tracking can lead to serious challenges.

Recognizing the pressing need for innovation in blood supply systems, eHealth Africa, in partnership with the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative—the Blood Information System for Crisis Intervention and Management (BISKIT) AKTH Pilot Project. This project, supported by the eHealth Africa Board, aims to digitize and streamline the process of blood collection, management, and distribution, ensuring that safe blood is always available before, during, and after crises.

According to Francis Ayo, the project manager, “This groundbreaking initiative is exploring a key question: How can digital solutions help ensure a sufficient supply of safe and quality-assured blood and blood products before, during, and after a crisis? In an attempt to answer this question, eHealth Africa, in collaboration with other consortium partners, developed the Blood Information System for Crisis Intervention and Management (BISKIT) app.”

Empowering Healthcare Professionals through Training

Last week, eHealth Africa successfully conducted a pilot training session for AKTH medical doctors, laboratory scientists, and other healthcare professionals. This training marked a pivotal moment in the project’s timeline, laying the foundation for the digital transformation of blood supply management in Northern Nigeria. The participants’ expertise and engagement were vital as they collectively embarked on a mission to strengthen the blood supply chain through cutting-edge technology.

The training, which focused on the BISKIT system, helped participants deepen their understanding of the app’s functionalities and their role in improving the safety and availability of blood. It also gave them the opportunity to explore the app’s potential for collecting, analyzing, and visualizing blood supply data to generate insights that can influence decision-making, policy advocacy, and long-term strategies in healthcare.

One participant, Dr. Yahaya Ibrahim, a medical doctor at AKTH, expressed his satisfaction with the BISKIT app: “The app is user-friendly and easy to navigate. I foresee it significantly improving access to safe blood during critical moments.” His reflection encapsulates the thoughtful work that went into developing the BISKIT app to meet the needs of healthcare providers on the front lines of crises.

Williams Isong Akpan, the Deputy Director of Medical Laboratory Services at AKTH, was impressed by how the system allowed for task-specific roles and completion sign-offs. He remarked, “What stood out for me during the training was the seamless sign-off after completing each task and the allotment of different roles in the BISKIT system. This shows that a lot of thought was given to streamlining the blood donation chain, ensuring efficiency.”

Similarly, Abimbola Ajayi, the Assistant Chief Medical Laboratory Scientist at AKTH, noted the potential impact on patient care. “The BISKIT app will definitely improve the turnaround time for patients receiving our services. Overall, it will enhance the effectiveness of our services, making us more responsive to patients’ needs.”

Looking to the Future

The successful pilot training is just the beginning. The official launch of the BISKIT application in Kano State is underway, and expectations are high for the role the app will play in modernizing blood supply systems. The potential to capture data on blood donors and health workers, analyze trends, and visualize key metrics offers healthcare providers powerful tools to not only respond effectively during crises but also prepare for them.

The BISKIT app is about more than just blood. It is about hope, preparedness, and the power of technology to save lives. With the combined efforts of eHealth Africa, AKTH, and other stakeholders, the future of blood supply management is brighter, safer, and more resilient.

As we look ahead, we are reminded of the words of Francis Ayo: “At the heart of every crisis is an opportunity to innovate, and the BISKIT app is one of those innovations that will change the way we think about blood supply management. The goal is simple but profound: to save lives.”

In a world where the unexpected is always around the corner, tools like the BISKIT app will ensure that when the next crisis comes, we are prepared to respond with speed, efficiency, and compassion.

This project will undoubtedly revolutionize blood supply management, not just in Kano but potentially across Nigeria and beyond. The commitment to innovation and resilience shown by all the stakeholders involved is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when technology meets healthcare.

Shaping the Future of Public Health: Key Takeaways from ILF 2024

Posted on August 2, 2024September 5, 2024 by Favour Oriaku

By Favour Oriaku

The atmosphere at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja was electric on July 31st, as public health professionals, digital innovators, policymakers, and enthusiastic participants gathered for the Insights Learning Forum (ILF) 2024. With the theme “Digital Transformation in Public Health Practice: Innovations and Impact,” the forum became a pivotal event focused on the future of public health in Africa. It was more than just a gathering of professionals—it was a call to action for those committed to reshaping healthcare through technology.

The day began with a heartfelt welcome from Atef Fawaz, Executive Director of eHealth Africa, whose words set the collaborative tone for the day. “Let’s make this an avenue for exchanging information, ideas, and learning from each other,” he said. “We can only improve the system, outcomes, and impact by collaborating and sharing our knowledge.” His sentiment echoed through the room, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared purpose as participants prepared to engage in deep discussions and innovative thinking.

Ota Akhigbe, Director of Partnerships and Programs at eHealth Africa, followed with opening remarks that emphasized the importance of the event. “This is more than just a conference; it’s a convergence of strategic minds focused on reshaping the public health landscape in Nigeria,” she stated. Her words ignited excitement as participants anticipated the wealth of insights that awaited them.

The keynote address, delivered by Adam Thompson, Co-founder of eHealth Africa and CEO of EHA Clinics, painted a vivid picture of how far digital health innovation has come over the last 15 years. Reflecting on the journey, he remarked, “We recognized the massive issue of quality, not just access, in healthcare. Our goal was to deliver exceptional, patient-centered primary care.” Thompson highlighted the role of digital tools like GetCare, which have enhanced team-based care and improved communication between healthcare providers, underscoring the need for quality-driven approaches in public health.

Dr. David Akpan, Deputy Director of Partnerships and Programs at eHealth Africa, expanded on the event’s theme, stressing the urgency of embracing digital innovations in public health. “Digital innovation is crucial to enhancing public health care, and this is something we are committed to advancing,” he affirmed. His insights laid the groundwork for the technical sessions that would delve into the complexities and possibilities of digital health.

The technical sessions were a cornerstone of ILF 2024, featuring presentations that sparked thought and conversation. Emeka Chukwu from the Digital Health Interoperability Network (DHIN) underscored the importance of data accessibility in healthcare. “Interoperability is key. When data is accessible across various points of care, patients can be more informed about their health,” he remarked, highlighting the need for integrated digital systems.

Another powerful moment came when Engr. Kaka Sanusi, representing Dr. Kashifu Inuwa of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), spoke about the challenges Nigeria faces in healthcare and the role of accurate data in overcoming them. “Digital collaboration is crucial. Joining resources can accelerate digital innovation in Nigeria’s public health space,” he emphasized, shedding light on the potential of technology to solve systemic issues.

Dayo Akinleye from eHealth Africa introduced the Logistic Management Information System (LoMIS), a game-changing tool that has improved vaccine distribution across Nigeria. “LoMIS has facilitated the delivery of 17 million vaccines, ensuring continuous accountability in vaccine distribution,” he shared, illustrating how digital tools are making a tangible impact in critical healthcare areas.

The panel discussion titled “Scaling Up Digital Health Innovations – Overcoming Implementation Challenges and Achieving Sustainability” was equally engaging. Moderated by Abdulhamid Yahaya, Deputy Director, Global Health Informatics (GHI) & IT at eHealth Africa, the session brought diverse perspectives to the forefront. Njide Ndili, Country Director of PharmAccess Nigeria, pointed out the need for healthcare access in underserved communities. “Proper interoperability and government involvement are essential for the sustainability of digital health solutions,” she noted, reinforcing the importance of systemic support.

Dr. Ifunanya Ilodibe, VP of EHA Clinics, spoke about the necessity of user-friendly tools in healthcare. “Tools for improvement should be simple to use to ensure continuous adoption in healthcare,” she said, emphasizing the role of accessibility in successful innovation.

The excitement for the future was palpable as the forum drew to a close. Dr. David Akpan’s closing remarks were filled with gratitude and hope. “Thank you once again for your support and for being a part of ILF 2024. We look forward to staying connected and continuing our collective journey towards digital innovation and transformation in public health,” he concluded, leaving participants with a sense of accomplishment and a shared commitment to driving change.

The Insights Learning Forum 2024 was not just an event; it was a movement, a catalyst for transformation in public health. The discussions and ideas exchanged have set the stage for future innovations that will tackle urgent challenges and create lasting impact across Africa. As we move forward, the commitment to leveraging digital technologies for public health remains unwavering, and the connections forged at ILF 2024 will continue to inspire collaboration, innovation, and meaningful change.

eHealth Africa Merges LoMIS Solutions for a More Efficient Healthcare System

Posted on July 12, 2024August 22, 2024 by Favour Oriaku

By Favour Oriaku

In a major advancement for digital health, eHealth Africa (eHA) combines its LoMIS Stock and LoMIS Deliver solutions into a unified platform called LoMIS Suite. This effort is backed by the Digital Health Innovation Accelerator Program (DHIAP), launched in 2021 by the WFP Innovation Accelerator and BMZ digilab, an initiative of the German government’s development agency (BMZ) in collaboration with GIZ, KfW (the German development bank), and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

In 2023, eHA’s project was chosen as one of five finalists for the WFP Sprint Programme, granting them financial aid, mentorship, and access to a network of experts and stakeholders for knowledge sharing.

These initiatives empower eHA to go beyond just technology. We envision a future where healthcare is reliable and accessible for everyone. This future empowers mothers to protect their children from preventable diseases, equips healthcare workers with dependable data and supply chains, and grants communities the healthcare they deserve.

Successful User Acceptance Testing of LoMIS Suite

To further this initiative, eHealth Africa conducted User Acceptance Testing (UAT) of the LoMIS Suite in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. The UAT included training on new features, a live application demonstration, test scenarios, user feedback sessions, and final approvals.

Participants included prominent figures like Dr. Larai Aliyu Tambuwal (Executive Secretary, Sokoto State Primary Healthcare Development Agency), Dr. Bilyaminu Balarabe Sifawa (Director of Disease Control and Immunization, Sokoto), and Abdullahi Abubakar Danzabuwa (Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Kano State), among others.

According to Dayo Akinleye, the technical project lead, “The new LoMIS Suite offers a single administrative interface, stock validation, notification alerts, and equipment maintenance features to enhance user experience and boost last-mile efficiency.” The session was highly interactive, with participants sharing their expectations and expressing satisfaction with the LoMIS Suite.

“The application will simplify our work and improve overall efficiency,” said Dr. Larai Aliyu Tambuwal. “It also fosters accountability and transparency in our operations.”

Collaboration Drives Innovation

Following the training, Fatima Howeidy, the WFP LoMIS Accelerator Project manager, led a tour of the eHealth Africa office in Abuja. The delegation was welcomed by top executives, including board member Andrew Karlyn, Executive Director Atef Fawaz, and directors from various departments.

Board member Andrew Karlyn expressed his appreciation to the stakeholders for their participation. He emphasized eHealth Africa’s commitment to developing digital solutions for public health, driven by user feedback and success stories. Ota Akhigbe, Director of Partnerships and Programs, stressed the importance of ongoing collaboration in advancing these solutions. She reiterated eHealth Africa’s openness to partnerships for the benefit of communities in Nigeria and Africa.

Dr. Larai Aliyu Tambuwal, representing the delegates, commended eHealth Africa’s management for their dedication to supporting healthcare advancements in Sokoto and Kano states, where LoMIS was previously piloted. She highlighted eHealth Africa’s unwavering support for primary healthcare in Sokoto, even when other organizations have withdrawn.

Transforming Healthcare with Digital Solutions

By merging LoMIS Stock and LoMIS Deliver, eHealth Africa isn’t just innovating, we are transforming healthcare across Nigeria and beyond. With continued support from initiatives like DHIAP and the WFP Sprint Programme, eHA strives to ensure every child thrives in good health, every healthcare worker has the best tools, and every community receives the healthcare they deserve. eHealth Africa’s journey exemplifies the power of digital solutions in achieving health equity and improving lives.

Trailblazing Excellence: Celebrating Trailblazers of the 2024 Womenovate Award

Posted on July 2, 2024September 5, 2024 by Favour Oriaku

By Uforo Umoh

According to the National Girls Collaborative Project (NGCP), women represent only 34% of the workforce in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and in most STEM fields at the college level, men significantly outnumber women. The gender gap is particularly high in some of the fastest-growing and highest-paid jobs, like computer science and engineering. In recent times, in the ever-evolving world of technology, women are not just participating—they are leading, innovating, and reshaping the industry. To explore the dynamic contributions of women in Technology and Engineering, we spoke with a few trailblazers who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Their stories are as diverse as their roles, but they share a common thread of resilience, passion, and pioneering spirit.

This year, the Womenovate 2024 Women in Technology and Engineering Award spotlighted some remarkable women who exemplify excellence in their fields. Some of the distinguished recipients include; Blessing Emmanuel, Diligence Saviour, and Maduabum Ogochukwu Ifeatu, all from eHealth Africa. The Women in Technology and Engineering Summit and Awards, a prestigious event put together by Womenovate, celebrates the groundbreaking contributions of women who are revolutionizing the fields of Engineering and Technology. Womenovate is a platform that provides Nigerian women the resources to build amazing careers and businesses in science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and mathematics (STEAM) industries.

Working in tech, a field traditionally dominated by men can present unique challenges for women. However, the experiences of these women highlight resilience and determination. For Blessing Emmanuel, an IT Support, her tech journey was inspired by the joy she finds in helping others resolve technical issues. “The satisfaction that comes from helping others is immensely rewarding,” she remarked. According to Blessing, she has not faced any significant gender-based challenges in her career, crediting eHealth Africa’s inclusive culture. “I haven’t experienced any form of gender discrimination because I am a woman,” she said.

Diligence, on the other hand, shared an unsettling experience during the early days of her career when she had to climb a ladder to fix a surveillance camera. A passerby expressed outrage at seeing a woman performing such a task. “That situation unsettled me”, she shared. She used this experience as motivation to keep pushing forward in her career. She also recounted an incident where she was told after a job interview that the role was intended for a man. “I would have preferred a rejection email rather than telling me the reason why they didn’t want to hire me was because of my gender,” she reflected.

Diligence Saviour, a Business Application Coordinator, originally aspired to become a medical doctor due to her father’s influence, Diligence discovered her passion for computer science during her university years. “After my first year, I developed a passion for computer science and decided to continue in that field,” she explained. Diligence’s role at eHealth Africa involves managing critical software applications like Sage X3, which is used across all of eHA’s offices globally. Ogochukwu Ifeatu, who serves as a Technical Project Manager (Product Owner) at eHealth Africa, was drawn to her role by her love for managing new projects. “What attracted me to this role was the love of managing a new project from start to finish,” she shared. Ogochukwu’s career began during her IT days in school, where she worked with a small tech startup. The challenges she faced, particularly in debugging codes, were both daunting and exciting, sparking her passion for tech.

eHealth Africa implements policies and practices that address gender diversity. These include promoting gender equity in hiring, pay, and advancement, as well as actively working to dismantle racial and ethnic biases that affect gender inclusivity by prioritizing gender inclusion. These stories are a testament to the impact that dedicated and talented individuals can make in the world of technology and global health.

Looking to the Future

Online Donation