Digitising Healthcare With Local Realities in Mind: Shaping the Future of African Healthcare

NAIROBI, Kenya– eHealth Africa (eHA) has called on governments and stakeholders to focus on cultural and community-specific factors to ensure the success of digital health solutions in Africa’s public health systems. Speaking at the Global Digital Health Forum 2024 in Nairobi, eHA’s Executive Director, Atef Fawaz, highlighted how data-driven, locally adapted technologies can transform healthcare delivery.

“Our solutions must address unique healthcare challenges in each country,” said Fawaz. He cited the Logistics Management Information System (LoMIS), which enabled the delivery of over 5.8 million vaccines to 351 primary healthcare facilities in Nigeria, eliminating stockouts and ensuring efficient distribution for Routine Immunisation programs.

Panelists emphasized integrating technology with local realities. Abdulhamid Yahaya, eHA’s Deputy Director of Global Health Informatics, underscored understanding the social, cultural, and regulatory landscape for effective solution design. Micheline Ntiru, an eHA board member, highlighted how mobile-based reminders have improved immunisation compliance, while SMS alerts educate parents and guide them during health emergencies.

The World Health Organization notes that mobile and internet accessibility, now prevalent in nearly 80% of African homes, is key to scaling eHealth innovations for disease prevention and control.

The forum featured experts from Delta40 Ventures, Tiko, Maisha Meds, and global institutions like the World Bank and UN agencies. Discussions centered on strategic partnerships, regulatory compliance, and local leadership’s role in advancing digital health.

eHealth Africa designs data-driven solutions tailored to Africa’s health challenges. With 15 years of expertise, eHA collaborates globally to deliver innovative, scalable healthcare systems that foster sustainable social and economic development.