Moshood Isah, Author at eHealth Africa

Emergency Operation Centre Critical To Public Health Response – Niger Commissioner

Posted on July 2, 2025September 7, 2025 by Moshood Isah

The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in Niger State has become a critical pillar in the state’s public health emergency preparedness and response, according to the commissioner for primary health care, Dr Ibrahim Ahmed Dangana.

Describing it as a “game-changer” in health coordination, Dr Dangana emphasised its central role in managing surveillance, disease outbreaks, and emergency response across the state.

Established and managed by eHealth Africa with support from the Gates Foundation, the state-of-the-art facility serves as a central hub for stakeholder coordination, driving the realisation of a responsive, data-driven public health system in Niger State.

According to Dr Dangana, since its inception about a year ago, the EOC has truly transformed how we coordinate public health in the state. He said the EOC has successfully connected all 25 local government areas (LGAs) in real time, enabling virtual meetings, data reporting, and rapid response to health emergencies, including childhood killer diseases, cholera, and meningitis outbreaks.

Dr Dangana noted that before the EOC, coordination relied heavily on physical meetings and delayed data, making emergency response sluggish and resource-intensive. “Before this centre, transporting health workers for meetings was costly and inefficient.

Now, we can convene hybrid sessions, access real-time data, and make quick, informed decisions,” he explained.

He said, beyond emergency response, the EOC serves as a platform for collaboration with technical working groups, development partners, and health managers across the state. According to him, it also provides a conducive environment that boosts staff morale and productivity with dedicated meeting rooms, offices, teleconferencing equipment, and staff welfare facilities.

Dr Dangana commended the Niger State government’s commitment to sustaining the EOC, saying Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has approved expansion plans to add a second floor and directed the creation of a dedicated budget line to support the EOC’s operations.

“This initiative may have started with donor support, but sustainability is already built. The state has fully embraced it, with budgetary provisions and strong political will to maintain and expand the facility,” he stated.

He noted that the significant investment in primary healthcare in the state has led to increased uptake of services such as antenatal care and skilled delivery, reflecting growing public confidence in PHC facilities.

“Our vision is clear—we want Niger State to be among the top three states in Nigeria in terms of equitable, accessible, and affordable healthcare. The EOC is central to this goal,” Dr Dangana affirmed. “It is more than a building—it is a critical tool for centralising data, coordinating plans, and ensuring fast, informed responses.”

He urged residents to make full use of the health services now available to them, stressing that prevention and early intervention are essential for improving community health outcomes. “Let’s not wait for illness to strike. The facilities are here, the staff are being trained and deployed, and the system is improving daily. It’s time for the people of Niger State to embrace this transformation,” he concluded.

With the combined efforts of the Niger State government, eHealth Africa, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Emergency Operations Center stands as a beacon of innovation, coordination, and sustainability in Nigeria’s health sector.

Powering Primary Healthcare Facilities with Renewable Energy Solutions

Posted on June 26, 2025June 26, 2025 by Moshood Isah

Fatima Ayomitide Azeez

Renewable Energy Solution at Daurawa PHC Kano

Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) are the frontline of Nigeria’s healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas. Yet, many of these facilities operate in darkness due to erratic power supply, severely compromising patient care, delaying emergencies, and rendering critical equipment useless.

According to a report by Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), approximately 40% of PHCs across Nigeria lack reliable electricity access, forcing many to rely on costly and inconsistent alternatives such as generators. This persistent lack of power undermines everything from vaccine storage to safe deliveries, causing health workers to delay procedures, refer patients unnecessarily, or improvise under unsafe conditions. Consequently, communities lose faith in the healthcare system, and health outcomes deteriorate.

Thus in a bid to bridge this infrastructural gap, eHealth Africa with support from United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) launched an ambitious intervention to solarize primary healthcare centers in 12 states across Nigeria.

As a matter of fact, 28 facilities out of the planned 238 PHCs have already been equipped with sustainable renewable energy power systems. This is not just replacing the unreliable alternative sources like fuel-powered generators with clean, consistent energy, it goes a long way in bridging healthcare delivery while protecting the environment.

Speaking during the commissioning of one of the facilities in Kano, Toju Chibuzor Oghele, Project Manager for the Solarization project at eHealth Africa said, “We recognized that consistent power is the absolute backbone of effective primary healthcare,”. “This solarization initiative is a strategic investment in building resilient health systems from the ground up, ensuring that life-saving services are never interrupted by a lack of electricity. It directly translates to tangible improvements in child survival and routine immunization coverage across these communities.” , he added

The renewed spirit is particularly evident among health workers on how critical this intervention is to general healthcare delivery in Primary Healthcare. At Jeli PHC, Kano State, Saleh Haruna, the public health official In-Charge of the facility says he now looks forward to a future that was previously unimaginable. He said, “by the grace of God, with this installation, we can finally go ahead and request equipment upgrade and procurement of some medical equipment that we do not have”.

He added that the PHC hasn’t been able to get facility upgrades over the years but this renewable energy solution has opened doors to providing better healthcare services. “This signifies a leap from basic functionality to aspiring for comprehensive, upgraded care”, he said.

For Ilya Muhammad, a 52-year resident of Jeli, the change is deeply personal. Having witnessed the hospital’s prime and its subsequent decline, he now feels immense relief. “I am just grateful that now we do not need to travel to far away medical facilities to get treated as we always did when emergencies occurred. If any of my family members fall sick now, straight to our neighborhood PHC.” The project has brought essential healthcare back to their doorstep, alleviating a significant burden.

Sani Umar, Assistant In-Charge at Kofa PHC, shares his revitalized outlook. He said, ” with our PHC now solarized, I genuinely look forward to work. No more heat because we have a conducive working environment and our morale is at an all-time high now as we do not need to turn patients away anymore on the basis of lack of power supply.”

These powerful testimonies showcase the tangible improvements in working conditions and the profound relief of being able to serve patients without the previous limitations.

The UNICEF delegation, who conducted an independent assessment of the installations, validated the functionality of the systems while gathering on-the-ground feedback from healthcare workers and communities. This evaluation successfully verified the effectiveness of the renewable energy systems, gauged their real-world impact on healthcare delivery, aligned stakeholders on future phases of the nationwide rollout, while strengthening accountability for both partners and beneficiaries.

The solarization effort is more than just a technical upgrade. It’s a strategic investment in health resilience. Through detailed assessments, tailored installations, and training of local health workers, each renewable energy system is built to serve the specific needs of the facility. While this intervention is still in early stages, its promise is undeniable. Reliable electricity enables vaccine preservation, emergency night services, lab diagnostics, and safer deliveries. It boosts staff morale and rebuilds community trust.

Public Health Stakeholders Endorse eHealth Africa’s Planfeld Platform for Digitizing Micro-Planning

Posted on June 11, 2025June 20, 2025 by Moshood Isah

Moshood Isah

Public health campaigns in Nigeria, particularly immunization efforts, have long been hampered by manual, time-consuming planning processes. Existing traditional methods often yield inaccurate or incomplete data, delayed micro-plans, and inefficient resource allocation, which in turn compromise the reach and quality of vaccination campaigns. In an era where timely, data-driven action is critical, the lack of digital tools for micro-planning severely limits the effectiveness and scalability of public health responses.

eHealth Africa’s Director of Programs and Partnership speaking during the PlanFeld UAT

In a significant step toward digitizing public health planning, key stakeholders across Nigeria’s immunization ecosystem have endorsed PlanFeld, a digital micro-planning tool developed by eHealth Africa. Stakeholders, including key members from the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC), Emergency Operations Centers from Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, and Kebbi states, and key partners in public health spaces, converged in Abuja for a comprehensive User Acceptance Testing of the PlanFeld application.

Through step-by-step hands-on demo sessions, stakeholders experienced firsthand how PlanFeld simplifies and accelerates the development of Daily Implementation Plans (DIPs). They commended the platform for improving data quality, reducing planning time, and enhancing decision-making during vaccination campaigns. Speaking at a recent User Acceptance Testing (UAT) session, some stakeholders from the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC), State Primary Healthcare Agencies, and Immunization Officers highlighted how Planfeld is already reshaping field operations.

Incident Manager, National EOC speaking during PlanFeld UAT in Abuja

The deputy Incident Manager of the NEOC reiterated the fact that Microplan remains key to the success of any health campaigns, and it’s important to have a standard database for public health campaigns. He commended eHealth Africa for taking the lead to ensure we have a standard and realistic database and planning system. “eHealth Africa has been the champion for using technology for many years and you are also evolving in trying to see how to use new digital technological innovations to upgrade our plans in the country”, he said

Dr. Abdullahi Musa Garba, Incident Manager at the Kaduna State Emergency Operations Center, emphasized the need to shift from outdated manual planning methods. He said, “As a country, we can’t continue doing things the same way. With Planfeld, a Daily Implementation Plan (DIP) that used to take a week now takes just 30 minutes. It gives us real-time visibility into resources, team movements, and vaccine allocation. This is a significant strategic shift.”

Dr. Garba noted that digital tools like Planfeld will help reduce vaccine wastage and enable real-time supervision of vaccination teams. The ability to track where and when a team is expected in a settlement adds accountability and boosts campaign efficiency. He called on Stakeholders to work together to move from traditional methods to digital tools that deliver faster, higher-quality outcomes.

Niger State Immunization Officer, Usman Abubakar Kpantu, described the tool as a game-changer. He said, “The platform is very user-friendly. Within minutes, we can generate a comprehensive micro-plan. Before now, this would have taken days. This saves us time and allows for more accurate targeting.”

He added that Planfeld should be scaled to the local government level, especially for use by frontline implementers like Ward Focal Persons and Local Immunization Officers (LIOs).

Adding his voice, Kebbi State Immunization Officer, Abubakar Kaoje, noted that the PlanFeld application gives public health workers greater clarity and control when developing microplans for vaccination campaigns. He emphasized its usefulness in addressing high-risk and hard-to-reach areas.

“We now have a clearer picture of security-compromised areas and can proactively plan for them. During the training, we even mapped out high-risk settlements. That’s progress,” he said.

He stressed the importance of hands-on training and recommended that national and state teams collaborate more closely during implementation to ensure standardization and support.

Planfeld’s success in pilot states like Kebbi has already set the stage for broader deployment. Stakeholders expressed optimism that, with proper rollout and continuous training, Planfeld could support routine immunization efforts, campaign planning, and broader public health initiatives. As the global health community increasingly recognizes the importance of data-driven decision-making, platforms like Planfeld may become essential infrastructure for national immunization programs.

No Missed Child, No Rejection of Vaccines”: A Traditional Leader’s Voice in Vaccine Advocacy

Posted on May 20, 2025May 21, 2025 by Moshood Isah

*eHealth Africa meets traditional leader in Gwandu, Kebbi state*

By Joyce Shinyi

“I once told vaccinators that if you find even one household that refuses vaccines in this community, I will give you $200. They went around and found none.”
– Alhaji Sani Umar Jabdi, District Head of Gagi and Sarkin Yakin Gagi, Sokoto State

In Gagi, a rural community in Sokoto State, Northern Nigeria, the fight against Circulating Variant Poliovirus and other vaccine-preventable diseases is being led not just from Primary Healthcare facilities, but also from the palaces of traditional leaders across the region.

Alhaji Sani Umar Jabdi is one of such leaders. Beyond settling community disputes, he has become a powerful advocate for immunization, championing vaccines as a means of protecting every child in his domain.

His commitment is part of the Engaging Traditional Institutions (ETI) project by eHealth Africa (eHA), in collaboration with the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development, Chigari Foundation, and other key partners. The intervention has strengthened advocacy by traditional leaders, increased community ownership of polio eradication efforts, and reduced vaccine hesitancy in high-risk Northern states.

“I am a community gatekeeper,” Alhaji Umar Jabdi said. “My role is to bridge the gap between the community and service providers, the community and the government, between the community and development partners. This time, immunization is the top priority.”

“I ensure we reach out to every eligible child, no missed child, no rejections, and ensure we reach 100% coverage in immunization.”

In a bid to build visible trust through their leadership, Umar Jabdi and other district heads publicly immunize their children during campaign flag-offs. This method has been modeled by even the highest level of traditional leadership, like the Sultan of Sokoto. Following the Sultan’s lead, all 87 district heads in Sokoto did the same.

According to Alhaji Umar, “The Sultan loves all our children, he believes in vaccines, he is 100% sure that it protects from paralysis and deadly diseases, and we trust him 100%, so when he brings his child forward, we follow.”

Just like other communities, this strategy has paid off in Gagi. Vaccine acceptance is high! Community members trust the process because their leaders are part of it. “I once told evaluators that if you find even one household that refuses vaccines in this community, I will give you $200. They went around and found none.” Umar Jabdi boasted.

Through Engaging Traditional Institutions, traditional leaders like him are not only using their influence to improve vaccine uptake and support stronger community health systems, but are also receiving continuous technical support. “Under the Engaging Traditional Institutions intervention led by the Sultan Foundation (with support from eHealth Africa), we are mentored, coached, and trained regularly,” he says. “They visit palace by palace to guide us, correct us, and strengthen our ability to promote vaccination the right way.”

The visible results are hard to ignore. “This is the cold season, but we’ve not seen a whooping cough, we no longer see measles in our community. Routine immunization is working, and children are safe.” he says.

He calls for more support from other stakeholders to further boost success. “If more partners can support this engagement, we can expand outreach. We can engage more religious leaders, more women, town halls, traditional media, and even social media. There are rumors online that we need help countering.”

He also believes the model should expand to other traditional rulers who have not yet received the same capacity building. “Many of my colleagues are intelligent and capable, they just need the training and the opportunity. If we are empowered, we can protect our people better.”

Above all, he insists that community ownership is key. “If you come to our health facility today, you will see the evidence: zero home deliveries, children with immunization cards. The people are involved because they trust us.”

“We are doing this,” he says firmly, “and we will continue doing it until we die. No paralyzed child, no disease that could have been prevented.”

The Engaging Traditional Institutions intervention is positioning traditional rulers not just as custodians of culture, but as protectors of health. By building on existing trust, it is laying the foundation for stronger, more resilient health systems across underserved communities. For eHealth Africa, this kind of transformation is the goal of the Engaging Traditional Institutions project, using trusted traditional institutions to drive change in underserved communities.

BISKIT: Bridging the Gap in Blood Information Management System

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by Moshood Isah

By – Fatima Abdulaziz Ayomitide

The persistent and critical blood shortage in Nigerian hospitals, as revealed by the National Blood Service Agency (NBSA) in December 2024, shows that Nigeria can only meet less than 30% of its blood transfusion needs. This severe deficit creates a life-threatening situation for patients and strains hospital resources, particularly during emergencies. The World Health Organization has also estimated that 1.5 million units of blood are needed annually to meet healthcare demands, yet only about 500,000 units are collected each year. This shortfall of nearly 67% has serious implications for patient care. Emergency cases often depend on last-minute donations, and in some instances, the available stock is either insufficient or compromised due to poor storage practices.

Underlying this crisis is a deeper issue of uncertainty. Donors, even those who regularly volunteer, are often left questioning where their blood goes, who it helps, and whether it makes the intended impact. This lack of transparency discourages participation, especially among first-time donors.

Evidence suggests that potential blood donors in African countries are more inclined to donate when they have a clearer understanding of how their contributions are utilized. Recognizing this desire for transparency and impact, a team of researchers and technologists began exploring how digital tools could build trust and improve the efficiency of the blood donation system.

Among them is Mohammed-Faosy Adeniran, the Project Manager for BISKIT, short for The Blood Information System for Crisis Intervention and Management (BISKIT), a mobile-based platform developed by eHealth Africa to address some of these critical gaps. “We realized the problem wasn’t a lack of willingness to donate but a disconnect between that willingness and actual blood requests. There were willing donors on one end, and urgent needs on the other, but no real-time system to link them.”

According to him, eHealth Africa is currently piloting the use of BISKIT at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano state. This is in a bid to standardize the digitization of blood information and management systems. During this implementation, the application allows users, donors, health workers, hospitals, and blood banks to manage and track blood donations from start to finish. Built with offline and mobile capabilities, BISKIT can function even in areas with limited internet access, ensuring wider reach and usability.

Halima Kabir Abdulkadir, a Research Assistant whose role involves performing cross-matching for patients, emphasized the complexity of managing donor and recipient data. “It contains a lot of information from the donors to the recipients. Having everything tracked in one system helps reduce errors and makes the process more efficient.”

For instance, when a health worker submits a request, nearby donors registered on the app are notified immediately. Through this direct and efficient channel, response times are reduced significantly.

Beyond logistics, the app also focuses on building trust. For donors, BISKIT offers a more transparent experience. They receive updates about their donations, pre-book appointments, and are guided through the donation process especially helpful for newcomers. “People just want to know their effort counts,” said Faosy. “The feedback we’ve received shows that donors are more encouraged to return when they can see the impact of their contribution.”

He added that the BISKIT application seeks to tackle structural issues like blood wastage. By integrating Geographic Information Systems and barcode tracking, BISKIT makes it easier to monitor the location and condition of blood bags, helping prevent mishandling or loss.

While still in its early stages of rollout, the platform has already shown promise. In pilot locations like Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano state, health workers report faster donor mobilization and fewer delays in emergency response.

Ultimately, BISKIT presents a compelling case for how technology can bridge gaps in public health systems, especially in contexts where trust, efficiency, and transparency are critical. Whether this model can scale across the country or even regionally remains to be seen. But for now, the app offers a practical solution to an urgent problem and a hopeful shift toward a more connected and accountable blood donation ecosystem.

Fatimah Azeez-Ayodele Ayomitide is a communications intern at eHealth Africa

How Free Medication from eHealth Africa Transformed Hafsat’s Life

Posted on May 1, 2025May 6, 2025 by Moshood Isah

By Moshood Isah

In Kano, Nigeria—where healthcare resources are often limited—Hafsat’s story stands as a powerful testament to hope and transformation, made possible through the free medication initiative under eHealth Africa’s ‘Digitizing for Impact: Improving Rural Access to Integrated Services for NCDs in Nigeria (DIIAN)’ intervention.

Struggling with hypertension and an ulcer for years, Hafsat’s health journey was full of frustration and uncertainty. Yet, after discovering the EHA REACH Clinic, a key partner in the DIIAN intervention offering free, targeted care, her life took a turn for the better.

*How Free Medication from the DIIAN Transformed Hafsat’s Life*

Hafsat had long battled high blood pressure, a condition that made daily life difficult. Along with the hypertension, she also suffered from an ulcer. Her first response was to visit multiple hospitals in search of relief. “I visited four hospitals in the community,” she recalled. “But the doctors would just tell me to avoid salty foods and prescribe medication, which didn’t seem to help much.” Despite these efforts, her condition continued to worsen, and the burden of managing her health became overwhelming.

Hafsat eventually sought alternative treatment at other hospitals, hoping for a clearer diagnosis and solution. However, her visits were met with confusion. “They told me my condition wasn’t clear, and I was referred to other hospitals. It felt like I was running in circles. Nothing seemed to work.”

In the midst of these frustrating experiences, Hafsat learned about the REACH Clinic, a local healthcare facility that was part of the DIIAN project and provided free medication for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. “I live close to the clinic, so I knew about it. When I found out they were offering free medication, I decided to give it a try,” Hafsat explained.

The change was immediate. Upon her first visit to the REACH Clinic, Hafsat was welcomed by a team of professionals who immediately began managing her hypertension with the right medication. “The difference was so clear. At other hospitals, I was often told they didn’t have the medication I needed or I would get prescriptions that didn’t seem to work. But at the REACH Clinic, they gave me the proper treatment,” Hafsat said, her voice filled with relief.

Over time, Hafsat’s health improved significantly. The swelling in her body, a common symptom of her hypertension, began to subside. “The swelling stopped, and I felt much better,” she recalled. “Before, I was taking medicine that wasn’t effective, but the medication I received here really worked.”

For Hafsat, the experience of receiving free, reliable care has not only alleviated her physical symptoms but also restored her sense of hope. “Now, when I run out of medication, I don’t worry. I know I can come back and get more,” she said, smiling.

The impact of the DIIAN project, and particularly the REACH Clinic’s provision of free medication, has been profound for Hafsat. “I want others to know that they don’t have to suffer the way I did. I used to feel hopeless, but now I am doing well. I encourage anyone who has high blood pressure or diabetes to get treatment, it makes all the difference,” she urged.

Looking forward, Hafsat’s outlook on life has been transformed. “I may not have any major ambitions right now, but I just want to stay healthy and continue receiving the care that has helped me so much. I am grateful for everything the REACH Clinic has done for me,” she concluded.

For Hafsat, the free medication provided through the DIIAN project has been life-changing, offering her a new sense of wellbeing and hope. Her story highlights the crucial role of accessible healthcare in improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and underscores the importance of initiatives that support those in need.

New Era for Zimbabwe Polio Lab After Biggest Upgrade in 20 Years

Posted on April 29, 2025April 29, 2025 by Moshood Isah

Moshood Isah

“This is the biggest transformation I have witnessed in the Polio laboratory, University of Zimbabwe, since I started working here over 2 decades ago”, these are the words of Professor Rooyen Mavenyengwa, Director of Zimbabwe Polio Laboratory as he expresses excitement about the recent upgrade of the Lab.

For five years, Professor Mavenyengwa has served as the Director of Zimbabwe Polio Laboratory, where he leads surveillance work on viral vaccine-preventable diseases like Polio, Rubella, Measles, and Rotavirus. But his journey in public health stretches back over two decades. As a scientist, educator, and principal investigator, Professor Mavenyengwa wears many hats but none more proudly than the one guiding Zimbabwe’s Lab into a new era.

“Before the upgrade, our challenges were multitude,” he recalls. “Our equipment, internet, fire alarm system, needed an urgent upgrade. In some instances we even lacked basic safety features like eyewash stations. It was not just inconvenient—it was unsafe.”

These challenges changed drastically, thanks to the comprehensive Lab modernization by World Health Organisation (WHO AFRO) and eHealth Africa with funding from Gates Foundation. The lab upgrade features new infrastructure, modern Information Communications Technology (ICT) systems, enhanced safety measures, and even state-of-the-art restrooms now define a space that was once struggling to keep pace with the demands of new global health surveillance trends.

Beyond aesthetics, the upgrade is about saving lives due to its new capacity for laboratory diagnosis of sewage samples for environmental surveillance (ES) in addition to the Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) testing which was already done. Environmental surveillance is a key method in detecting polio in wastewater before it spreads to humans. Zimbabwe was the last country in the WHO Afro Regional network of 16 Labs to implement this technique—but not anymore.

“For years, we had to send our environmental samples to South Africa. Now, we can test them right here, saving both time and money, and building our own local expertise,” he shares proudly.

With the evolution extending to genomic sequencing, Zimbabwe is now one of only nine countries piloting this initiative, allowing scientists to track and understand viral mutations in real time. “It’s a major leap for our scientific capabilities,” says Professor Mavenyengwa. “We’re not just participating, we’re leading.”

Beyond diagnostics, the upgraded Lab has become a center for training and capacity building. Undergraduate students now rotate through the Lab for hands-on experience, while postgraduate researchers make up over half the Lab staff. A new conference facility allows for in-house training, attracting experts from across and beyond the region and creating a ripple effect of scientific knowledge.

Professor Mavenyengwa believes this shift holds lasting promise. “The future is very bright,” he says. “Our data already informs national immunization policies, like the rollout of the nOPV2 vaccine. With stronger systems and better-trained personnel, Zimbabwe can make an even greater contribution to global polio eradication.”

For someone who has spent 23 years in academia and public health, this isn’t just about milestones, it’s personal. “We’ve waited a long time for this,” he reflects. “Now that we have it, we’re going to use it to the fullest, to protect our children, to protect our future.”

Speaking during the commissioning of the Polio laboratory in Zimbabwe, Dr Desta A. Tiruneh, World Health Organization Country Representative lauded the initiative stating that the launch of this laboratory is not only a significant advancement in Zimbabwe’s health infrastructure but also a vital move toward protecting the health and well-being of children throughout Africa. He said, “The fact that the Polio Lab belongs to a network of 16 other polio Labs in Africa also entails that Zimbabwe could also be called upon to support other Labs if the need arises. This advancement will increase the quality and timeliness of poliovirus detection not only in Zimbabwe but in Africa as a whole.”

Similarly, Deputy Director, Partnerships and Programs at eHealth Africa, Dr. David Akpan highlighted the significance of this impactful intervention to eHealth Africa’s mission of strengthening health systems across Africa. According to David, eHealth Africa team is excited that, “Beyond supporting prevention and swift response to health emergencies, the laboratory will also serve as a valuable resource for research and training for researchers in genomic sequencing and public health interventions”

In his own remark, Head of Zimbabwe Polio laboratory, Prof Rooyen Mavenyengwa expressed gratitude for the partnership, stating, “This is the biggest transformation we have seen in this laboratory since 2003. We deeply appreciate this collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, University of Zimbabwe, eHealth Africa, WHO AFRO, and the Gates Foundation. The enhancement of our National Virology Laboratory is a game-changer for Zimbabwe, allowing us to improve disease surveillance, strengthen response mechanisms, and build local expertise in genomic sequencing.“

In a world where laboratories are often hidden behind microscopes and machines, Professor Mavenyengwa’s story reminds us that behind every virus tracked and every outbreak prevented, a child’s life saved, there are passionate people pushing boundaries and quietly transforming systems, one upgrade at a time.

eHealth Africa Partners with BellaNaija to Champion Adolescent Girls’ Health

Posted on April 9, 2025April 30, 2025 by Moshood Isah

Lagos, Nigeria – April 9, 2025 —eHealth Africa, a leader in data-driven digital health innovations and mobile/web-based solutions that enhance healthcare access for underserved communities, has partnered with BellaNaija, a leading lifestyle and media platform to improve the health and well-being of women and adolescent girls across Africa. This strategic collaboration underscores a shared commitment to spotlight and address the unique health challenges faced by adolescent girls, particularly those in underserved, rural, and economically disadvantaged communities.

Over the past month, this advocacy campaign through a series of features, engagements, and live events has raised awareness, bridged knowledge gaps, and championed innovative solutions to improve access to healthcare for adolescent girls. The campaign culminated in a High Tea event hosted by BellaNaija Style, spotlighting the need to address the cultural, accessibility, and economic factors impacting adolescent girls’ health.

Speaking at the event, eHealth Africa’s Director of Partnerships and Programs, Ota Akhigbe decried the harsh realities many Adolescent girls face, “Families, especially in low-income and hard-to-reach areas, often struggle just to put food on the table. When resources are stretched, healthcare for their young women and girls becomes a secondary concern.”

To address challenges like this, eHealth Africa emphasized the need for multi-sectoral collaboration, urging stakeholders from government to private enterprises to support initiatives through innovative funding and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). “Sustainable change requires intentional investment. Our work with BellaNaija illustrates how media partnerships can amplify community voices while also attracting the kinds of diverse funding streams needed to scale impact,” Akhigbe said.

eHealth Africa brings to this partnership a proven track record of building scalable digital health ecosystems that has impacted communities across Nigeria and Africa. These include the deployment of solutions like the Logistics Management Information Systems (LoMIS) in partnership with the Sokoto State government to ensure end-to-end logistics and last-mile vaccine delivery systems. Similarly, eHealth Africa is currently piloting its Blood Information System for Crisis Intervention and Management (BISKIT) in partnership with Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, to ensure a sufficient supply of safe and quality-assured blood and blood products. We have also consistently deployed Geographic Information Systems and digital planning tools like Planfeld to reach every child with vaccines and other medical supplies.

By integrating innovation with community engagement, eHealth Africa remains a trusted partner for organizations working to make meaningful contributions to public health outcomes across the continent. These capabilities position eHealth Africa as a trusted partner for anyone seeking to make meaningful contributions to public health. As the partnership with BellaNaija evolves, we will continue to drive grassroots advocacy, deliver engaging campaigns, and expand platforms that amplify the stories and health needs of women and adolescent girls. Together, we will continue to drive awareness campaigns, promote grassroots engagement, and advocate for improved access to healthcare for adolescent girls while building on the foundation for a healthier, more equitable future.

About eHealth Africa
eHealth Africa (eHA) is a non-profit organization committed to strengthening health systems across Africa through the design and implementation of data-driven solutions. Over the past 15 years, eHA has built a robust technological and operational platform tailored to address complex health delivery challenges. By opening its operational, management, partnership, and technology platforms to others, eHA accelerates the adoption of impactful innovations.

Leveraging global insights and local expertise, the organization develops sustainable public health solutions that are adaptable to diverse African contexts. We have country offices and local government coordinators stationed in Nigeria, additional resource capacity, and strategic partnerships in Nigeria and 27 other African countries, across West, Central, East, and Southern Africa.

For more information, visit: www.ehealthafrica.org

Media Contact:

Favour Oriaku
Knowledge Management and Communications Lead, eHealth Africa
favour.oriaku@ehealthnigeria.org

Empowering Mothers & Protecting Newborns for Healthy Futures

Posted on April 7, 2025April 29, 2025 by Moshood Isah

Joyce Shinyi

In many parts of the world, including Nigeria, maternal health remains a critical issue. Pregnant women and new mothers often face barriers such as inadequate access to quality healthcare, limited awareness of postnatal depression, and difficulties balancing work, childcare, and self-care. In marginalized communities, these challenges are compounded by economic constraints and limited healthcare infrastructure.

Empowering Mothers & Protecting Newborns for Healthy Futures

Similarly, access to accurate and reliable maternal and newborn health information is another crucial factor, with many women struggling to find trustworthy, accessible guidance on prenatal and postnatal care. Without adequate knowledge, risks such as stillbirth, maternal complications, maternal and newborn mortality increases. While there seems to be general information about maternal and newborn health, it is important to separate myths from facts.

According to Gloria Dabo, Healthcare Worker in Abuja, Nigeria, “Women should be educated, especially those who have given birth before, to understand that every pregnancy is unique and requires monitoring.” She advises women to prioritize early antenatal saying, it is key to preventing unforeseen complications.

Also, it is pertinent to expand mental health support for mothers as postnatal depression remains a largely unaddressed issue, particularly in marginalized communities where mental health resources are scarce. Many women experience emotional distress following childbirth but lack the support necessary to navigate these challenges.

Corroborating this thought, Simon Esther, a pregnant woman sought for more awareness on postnatal depression. She said, “Many women, especially in rural areas, don’t even know it exists. Men should be encouraged to attend antenatal classes so they can better support their wives during and after pregnancy.”

By increasing awareness and access to maternal mental health resources and encouraging community engagement, and education about postnatal depression, we can also help reduce stigma and ensure more mothers receive the care they need.

Emphasizing how important maternal and child health is, a nursing mother, David Jane enthused that, “a woman will never forget how she was treated during pregnancy and after childbirth. This is a crucial time when she needs the most care, rest, and support from family, employers, and society.” Thus, strengthening healthcare access for mothers and newborn is essential for building healthier communities.

Key stakeholders have continuously called on governments to provide necessary equipment in hospitals, especially the government-owned ones. According to Gloria Dabo, “Many mothers go there to access care, but crucial tools like ultrasound machines for monitoring pregnancies aren’t available. Early detection of complications can save lives.”

In line with the theme of this year’s commemoration of World Health Day, WHO urged governments , private sectors, Non-Governmental Organizations and the health community to ramp up efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, and to prioritize women’s longer-term health and well-being. eHealth Africa for instance, is leveraging data-driven solutions to bridge critical gaps in healthcare access. Through the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) intervention Project, the organization was able to enhance access to essential nutrition services for pregnant and nursing mothers. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maternal well-being and the healthy development of newborns, reducing risks of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Additionally, our Vaccine Direct Delivery (VDD) ensures that essential vaccines reach underserved communities, safeguarding maternal and newborn health. By improving access to life-saving vaccines, we are helping reduce the risks of preventable diseases that can lead to newborn mortality and complications.

Our collaboration with Jacaranda Health will will also go a long way in empowering frontline health workers with digital tools and real-time guidance. This intervention will help ensure timely, high-quality care for mothers throughout their pregnancies and beyond, improving maternal and newborn survival rates.

As we observe World Health Day 2025, we are reminded of the importance of maternal and newborn health, particularly the challenges mothers face from pregnancy through early childhood. At eHealth Africa (eHA), we are committed to improving access to healthcare in underserved communities, including services that support women and children.

Healthy beginnings lay the foundation for hopeful futures for mothers, children, and entire communities. Join us in advocating for better maternal health outcomes and supporting the well-being of mothers everywhere.

Happy World Health Day!

High Tea with BNS: Conversation To Improve Womens’ Health Through Collaboration & Innovation

Posted on April 7, 2025April 29, 2025 by Moshood Isah

Joyce Shinyi

In a world where women’s health conversations are often swept under the rug, High Tea with BNS by BellaNaija offered a refreshing counterbalance. Hosted in Lagos by BellaNaija Style in collaboration with eHealth Africa to mark the end of International Women’s Month Campaign, the event featured influential women across sectors: fashion, health, and development, for an afternoon of connection and purposeful dialogue.

High Tea with BNS: Improving Women’s Health Through Collaboration & Innovation

Against a backdrop of rising interest in wellness, the conversation focused on supporting adolescent girls through improved access to health. Moderated by Audrey Odogu, Senior Manager of New Business Development, the event created a powerful space for conversation, networking, and collaboration.

Speaking during the panel session themed “The Intersection of Technology and Healthcare Access for Women”, eHealth Africa’s Director of Programs and Partnerships, Ota Akhigbe, reiterated the importance of data-driven solutions to bridge health gaps for women, especially in underserved communities.

She emphasized that despite the challenges, the sector is ripe for innovation and growth, particularly for women. “There is too much to be done,” Ota explained. “We must continue to build capacity and open doors for collaboration to improve access to essential health services for women, especially in underserved regions.” She highlighted eHealth Africa’s ongoing work in using digital tools and data-driven solutions to address gaps in healthcare provision.

Ota shared an example of how mentorship programs sometimes miss the mark, decrying why 17-year-old girls are paired with 60-year-old mentors whose life experiences are worlds apart. “How can a teenage girl open up about sex, periods, or mental health to someone who might not even understand or accept her reality?” she quizzed. This, according to her, underscores the urgent need for programs that reflect the language, culture, and real-life experiences of the girls they aim to serve. She emphasized safe spaces and peer-led mentorship as crucial strategies for fostering openness and trust among adolescent girls, especially in health-focused interventions.

The Intersection of Technology and Healthcare Access for Women

“We need to be able to create spaces where women can contribute to decision-making, especially in addressing health challenges like maternal mortality,” Ota added saying, “Together, we can achieve miracles. No one organization can do it alone.”

The discussion served as a call to action for organizations, governments, and individuals to unite efforts toward improving health outcomes, particularly for women and adolescent girls. In closing, the High Tea with BNS event wasn’t just a conversation; it was a catalyst. It provided a platform for leaders in various sectors to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and create lasting partnerships that will ultimately benefit communities, especially in the area of women’s health. It reminded us that access to quality healthcare should not be a privilege and that with the right partnerships, tools, and empathy-led innovation, we can rewrite the story for the next generation of girls.

A key takeaway from the session was the emphasis on leveraging technology for community health solutions. They spoke on eHealth Africa’s success in mapping healthcare facilities across northern Nigeria using satellite imagery and geospatial technology. This effort has been critical in improving healthcare delivery in hard-to-reach areas and ensuring that healthcare services reach the most vulnerable populations.

In the end, the panelists called on policymakers, tech developers, storytellers, business owners, and advocates to contribute their bits towards a more equitable and healthier future for women and girls in Nigeria. From co-creating health solutions to using platforms to amplify accurate information or investing in health-focused Corporate Social Responsibility, every action matters.

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