Angela Nyambura Gichaga , AoEC

Have you caught up with our researcher stories?📖🌐 Get insights on the: 💡Impact of AREF initiatives  💡Research contributions alumni provide 💡Publications & relevant articles written by alumni Read more here: https://bit.ly/4c8KpqE #Africahealth #capacitybuilding #healthresearch

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Empower Africa’s Future Health Workforce: Partner with Us Today! AL for Health as a Sector is committed to grooming and nurturing talented young individuals passionate about making a positive impact in the healthcare sector. Our programs and hands-on learning opportunities equip network members with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to tackle complex healthcare challenges in Africa and beyond. We seek partnership opportunities with organisations committed to bringing innovative solutions for Africa's pressing healthcare challenges. These partnerships could include internships and job placements for network members, or collaboration on key healthcare initiatives. By partnering with such organisations, our goal is to provide our network members with practical experience, mentorship, and exposure to real-world healthcare settings, enhancing their academic learning and preparing them for future leadership roles in the healthcare sector. You're not only tapping into top-tier talent from our pool but also actively addressing unemployment. Your involvement will shape the future health workforce in Africa while fostering growth and innovation within your organization. Partnering with us is seamless and rewarding. We assist with candidate screening, and internship onboarding support and provide ongoing professional development workshops for our graduates. We aim to make the process as effortless as possible for employers. Join us and become a catalyst for change in Africa's employment landscape. Together, we can empower the next generation of African healthcare leaders. If you would like to know more, get in touch with us: [email protected] Ready to partner or hire a young leader, sign up here: https://lnkd.in/dcUAJgwR   Africa Careers Network  #AcceleratingCareers #ImpactfulPartnerships #CareerDevelopment #CareersOfImpact #YouthEmpowerment #Healthcare #HealthcarePartnerships #FutureofHealthcare #AfricanLeadership #Partnerships #InternshipOpportunities #ALForHealthNetwork #AfricanLeadershipAcademy

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Last Friday was yet another moment to move the agenda for #mothers and #newborns in Kenya. I was priviledged to share the platform with the current President of FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) , my fellow advocate for the accountability of mothers, newborns and adolescents, Prof. Anne Kihara. As she reminded us of these powerful but true words by the late Professor Mahmoud Fathalla, a past president of FIGO, it took me back to the work that we are currently undertaking as White Ribbon Alliance Kenya, through the #Ask #Listen, #Act approach and finding solutions through #storytelling. Prof Mahmoud’s words resonate so deep with the realities of families, children, husbands, parents who have lost their kin to #preventable maternal and newborn deaths world over. That “Women are not dying because of untreatable diseases. They are dying because societies have yet to make the decision that their lives are worth saving“.  As a speaker in this forum, it was my moment to remind everyone in the room that we are failing because we are yet to decide that women’s lives are worth saving, and that to change this, we must be ready to take the #unconventional route, and start our #programming #resourcing and #policymaking from the place of asking, listening and acting on what the #users of care want, for they are the real experts of their own health. During our discussions, we collectively recognized that the usual #global to #national  “plug and play” approach is insufficient and fails to appreciate country and community contexts. Contexts and realities matter, and women and newborns are not #homogeneous. As a staunch believer that maternal and newborn health is everyone’s business, I was excited to see my years of advocacy bear fruit to a great extend. There is now widespread acknowledgment that addressing maternal and newborn health requires considering their self articulated needs, needs that transcend the health sector , and seek to address the #socialdeterminants of maternal and newborn health. I emphasized that we shouldn’t merely think outside the box; that we should discard the box entirely and venture far from our usual modus operandi. Our data-rich environment often lacks #actionable decision-making. We get caught up in the long #processes, #templates, and #forums, losing sight of what truly matters: meeting the needs of women & newborns where they are! We concluded by crafting an #action plan to tackle #postpartumhemorrhage in the country, the leading killer of mothers during #childbirth. I am optimistic that by contextualizing the global PPH roadmap to our country’s unique circumstances, we will make significant strides. Let’s continue challenging norms, using all forms of data effectively, & prioritizing #WhatWomenWant, recognizing that beyond the #numbers are lived #realities of women and their newborns. Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society USAID MOMENTUM Robyn Churchill CNM, MSN, FACNM AlignMNH Fatima Gohar

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Researcher spotlight 🌟 Dr Suleiman Abdullahi, grantee of the LRI Research capacity strengthening grant The LRI Research Capacity Strengthening Grant's inaugural call for proposals was launched in December 2022. After a competitive selection, two early-career researchers, including Dr. Suleiman, were awarded the grant for their impressive proposals. We invited Dr Suleiman to share insights from his experience with his project and grant. Here are his reflections: 📝About the project: Nigeria faces a significant public health challenge, contributing 25% to the global burden of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), with 2,393 new leprosy cases reported in 2023. The country suffers from a severe shortage of dermatologists, with just one for every 1.6 million people. To address this, solutions like integrated skin screening and task shifting to general health workers (GHWs) are needed, although GHWs receive limited dermatological training. This project is utilising 'collaborative co-design' to enhance educational collaboration among researchers, practitioners, affected individuals, and policymakers. Aligning with the WHO NTD roadmap and Global Leprosy Strategy, it aims to strengthen healthcare capacity and contribute to global health targets in Nigeria and beyond.   🚀About the LRI Research capacity strengthening grant: This grant pushes you beyond your comfort zone, enhancing not just research skills but also administrative, human resource management, logistics, and stakeholder engagement abilities. This program fosters networking and collaboration with the broader NTD NGO community. My mentors have been invaluable, offering support and encouragement throughout this journey. I am confident that this journey will open doors to the next step in becoming a leader who contributes to global NTD and leprosy strategies through research that shapes policy. I hope to get and implement much bigger grants on NTDs in the near future.   🎯How the grant has strengthened your capacity as an early-career researcher: I always remain excited about this opportunity. There are many aspiring researchers, especially in NTD high-endemic nations, just like me. However, lack of mentors and availability of funding are stumbling blocks. The LRI Research capacity strengthening grant is one of the few that has the potential to bridge this gap. I am confident that our work will have a significant contribution towards achieving global NTD/leprosy strategies in Nigeria. This grant will not only enhance my research capacity as the PI but also my future as a young researcher. I am already collaborating with a skin disease specialist who is passionate about research (as a research associate) in the implementation. This multiplier effect will be a huge success.   LRI wishes Dr Suleiman success in his project and development journey! 📢 The Research capacity strengthening grant returns this December! 📅 If you're an early-career researcher inspired by Dr Suleiman’s story, stay tuned.

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🌍 Are we doing enough to build a resilient health system in South Africa? Deputy Minister Zuko Godlimpi emphasises the urgent need for a robust healthcare framework that ensures equitable access for all. This initiative not only aims to enhance infrastructure but also focuses on engaging the private sector, strengthening human resources, and upgrading essential medical supplies. Read more about the key strategies that can shape a strong health system for all South Africans. #SyenzaNews #healthcare #HealthTech #innovation #healthcarepolicy https://lnkd.in/ecKrjE_Z

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Leadership matters! As we mark #CARMMAPlusWeek, we call on governments to strengthen health policies and governance to end preventable maternal and child deaths by 2030. Let’s build resilient health systems together. #Agenda2063 #AfricaCares #CARMMAPlusIsBack

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How can we ensure that community health workers (CHWs) are fully integrated into Africa's healthcare systems to achieve universal health coverage (UHC)? The contribution of CHWs to public health cannot be overstated. These trusted members of the community play a pivotal role in bridging gaps in healthcare delivery, especially in under-served areas. During the Ebola and COVID-19 pandemics, their presence was instrumental in contact tracing, vaccine distribution, and providing essential care (Ngongo et al., 2024). Yet, despite their critical roles, CHW programs face substantial operational and funding challenges, with a $5.4 billion annual funding gap (Gichaga et al., 2021). We must address fragmented coordination and underfunding, but the question remains—how do we scale up CHW programs sustainably? African governments, in collaboration with international bodies, need to develop long-term strategies that include sufficient training, supervision, and compensation for CHWs, as well as harmonizing funding efforts. The success of Ethiopia's health extension program is a powerful example of what’s possible when CHWs are supported. How can other countries replicate this model to bolster global health security? Access the paper below and drop your thoughts in the comments section. #CommunityHealthWorkers #GlobalHealth #UniversalHealthCoverage #HealthcareInnovation #PublicHealth #HealthSecurity #CHWPrograms #SustainableDevelopment #HealthcareFunding #HealthSystems #AfricaHealth #GlobalHealthSecurity #PandemicPreparedness Luchuo E. Bain.Ngashi Ngongo Nebiyu Dereje Mohamed Teriaky, MD, MBA, MPP Mosoka Fallah, PhD, MA, MPH Tamrat Shaweno Mohammed Abdulaziz Dr. Raji Tajudeen Nicaise Ndembi Jean Kaseya Africa CDC Eastern Africa RCC

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Did you know that inadequate facilities and a shortage of medical supplies severely hinder the delivery of quality healthcare at Primary Health Centers (PHCs) in Osun State? 🏥 This detailed and eye-opening report by @Africa_DataHub, authored by @OladunjoyeBles1, explores the critical challenges faced in accessing healthcare across Osun State. 🏥📉 Read more here: https://bit.ly/3x0uFHb #HealthcareCrisis #OsunPHCs #HealthcareAccess #PublicHealth #OsunState

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As infectious agents become more infectious and dangerous, it remains certain that the best approach in the future is vaccination and alternative approaches to conventional medicine. Drugs are losing potency everyday, and the rates of pathogen mutations are way too fast. We must have local governments in Africa invest in research and vaccine development to better improve the health of Africans. We need vaccines manufactured here in the continent, and this is only possibly through locally funded research. It's more political than we usually assume

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Strong leadership and governance is the backbone of digital transformation. Listen in on some of the highlights from the Africa e-health Leadership Forum 2024. Ministry of Health, Kenya The Pan African Health Informatics Association (HELINA) Africa CDC World Health Organization Regenstrief Institute, Inc. OpenHIE #digitalhealth #leadership #digitaltransformation

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Sustainable improvements in public health across Africa require a collaborative, multi-sectoral approach, rather than isolated efforts. Relying solely on health ministries, local or pan-African health institutions, NGOs, and expert consultants is not enough to achieve long-term progress. While these entities play crucial roles, a broader and more diverse set of actors is essential for lasting success. Collaboration across multiple sectors is key to driving meaningful change: * Private sector: Pharmaceutical companies and traditional medicine producers which are critical in developing and distributing medicines and vaccines. * Academic and research institutions, that train health professionals, conduct essential studies, and develop new health interventions. Collaborative research between African institutions and international partners is vital to addressing region-specific health challenges. * Community-based organizations (CBOs): Grassroots organizations, with their deep local knowledge, excel in health education, sanitation, vaccination campaigns, and disease prevention. Their involvement is indispensable for implementing initiatives at the community level. * Faith-based organizations (FBOs): Many FBOs operate clinics, hospitals, and health outreach programs, particularly in rural areas. They also play an important role in health education and promoting healthy behaviors. * Social enterprises: Health technology startups and innovators provide affordable healthcare solutions, such as low-cost diagnostic tools, filling gaps in the health system, especially in remote or underserved areas. * Government ministries beyond health: Ministries of Education support school-based health programs, while Ministries of Agriculture address nutrition and food security, both crucial to public health. Ministries of Water and Sanitation ensure clean water access, a key factor in disease prevention. * Civil society advocacy groups and NGOs: These organizations advocate for government accountability and transparency, influence policy changes, and ensure community participation in health-related decision-making. * Media outlets: Media plays a crucial role in raising awareness, disseminating information about health risks and prevention, and influencing public health policies. Public health campaigns can significantly impact attitudes and behaviors regarding health practices. * International and continental organizations and agencies: Entities such as the WHO and ACDC provide technical support, global policy guidance, and emergency responses to health crises. * Global health initiatives: International partnerships and philanthropic programs support various public health initiatives across the continent, bringing expertise and resources to address pressing challenges. And others. This holistic collaboration will address both immediate health needs and long-term challenges, paving the way for lasting improvements in public health across the continent.

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What an energizing discussion - thanks for being a wonderful facilitator WINNIE LUBEMBE and for being my co-panelists Dr. Anne Musuva-Njoroge. We talked about why transformational leadership, why women, why healthcare, why now, and the answer was .. why not?! Women make up close to 50% of the global population, 70% of the health workforce in most countries, and only 25-40% of senior leadership positions in health. Yet global evidence indicates that women in leadership at organizational and national levels significantly (and positively) impact health decisionmaking, health outcomes/ impact, and finances! What will it take? Strong policies, data, and importantly IMPLEMENTATION of those policies/ regulation that look at: - Getting women there (staying in education, discarding the idea of “female” professions, teaching leadership skills, inclusive curricula etc); - Keeping women there (mentorship, peer support, gender responsive policies); and - Ensuring they thrive (pay equity, pathways for growth and promotion, safety from discrimination and sexual harassment etc). Do share your thoughts and ideas - we need to keep these important discussions going! And don't worry if you missed the live show, there is a recording: https://lnkd.in/dKNDM2TK NTV Kenya WomenLift Health Women in Global Health HealthX Africa ThinkWell Dr Norah Akong'o Obudho (MD, MPH, PMD, PgMD)

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#Tanzania Health Sector Strategic Policy Priorities for 2024–25 Key policy priorities for the HSSP in 2024/2025 are: 1. Human Resources for Health: Reducing the health worker gap in primary care facilities from 70% to 49% by increasing employment, designing retention schemes, enhancing management competencies, adopting innovative training approaches, and expanding the role of professional bodies 2. Quality of Health Services: Improving patient experience by introducing standard protocols, updating quality assessment, institutionalizing respectful care, strengthening leadership, ensuring commodity availability, promoting rational medicine use, revising R/CHMT roles, and establishing a health facility accreditation system 3. Health Care Financing and Social Protection: Scaling up health insurance coverage from 15.3% to 20%, finalizing the essential health package and UHI regulations, establishing strategic purchasing, and creating awareness on the importance of health insurance enrollment 4. Community Health Systems: Facilitating the implementation of the Integrated Community Health Workers Program by clarifying institutional arrangements, establishing national guidelines, developing sustainable financing mechanisms, and integrating implementation research. 5. Non-Communicable Diseases: Increasing focus on #NCD prevention, early detection, and management at the primary care level by building capacity, introducing screening packages, improving health information systems, enhancing community awareness, and addressing mental health and rehabilitation. 6. Public-Private Partnership: Fostering a conducive environment for private sector contribution by establishing a single registration and accreditation board, promoting service agreements, providing a suitable investment environment, and encouraging private sector investment in pharmaceuticals Wizara ya Afya Tanzania #THSSP #HSSP

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#digitalhealthtransformation journey continues. The healthcare landscape in Tanzania is undergoing a significant transformation with the integration of digital health technologies. The country seeks to maximise the impact of digital health interventions in addressing health system challenges. These efforts require international collaboration and strengthening public-private partnerships in promoting better health for all Tanzanians. health. To drive forward the digital health transformation journey in Tanzania, a multistakeholder partnership alliance has been formed under the leadership of the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MOH), the Ministry of Health Zanzibar (MOHZ), and the President’s Office Regional Administration and Local Government (PORALG) in Tanzania, LM International (LMI) in Tanzania/Sweden, Mälardalen University (MDU) in Sweden, eGovernment Authority (eGA), the Tanzania Health Informatics Association (TAHIA) and wider partners. The objectives of the partnership alliance are to support the implementation of the Tanzania and Zanzibar Digital Health Strategies and to provide a case study for other African countries on how digital transformation can be achieved. The annual Digital Health and Innovation Week #MADWI brings together stakeholders within the field of digital health. It creates a platform for capacity building and awareness raising through training, dialogue, networking, presentations, and exhibitions of digital health technologies to address health systems challenges. The innovation week is built upon the principles of the Quadruple Helix Model, involving the public sector, academia, the private sector and civil society organisations. The program aims to promote research, innovation, and development in digital health technologies to improve the delivery of health services for better population health.   Potential benefits and opportunities for different companies or organisations in attending the 4th MUHAS Digital Health and Innovation Week 2024 in Dar es Salaam include exploring and expanding your network and business opportunities, engaging in high-level discourse and knowledge exchange, showcasing innovations, networking and building strategic partnerships with counterparts in East Africa, gaining Insights into Local Healthcare Challenges and solutions and visiting tourist attractions and destinations. #SavetheDates: The *4th MUHAS Digital Health and Innovation Week 2024* will be held from November 11th to 15th, 2024, and the *4th Tanzania Digital Health and Innovation Forum and Exhibitions* will be held from November 14th to 15th. MUHAS Digital Health Silvanus Ilomo Erick Kitali Ntuli Kapologwe Bruno Sunguya Eng. Jaha M. Sosthenes Bagumhe Edwin Nyella Josephine Sundqvist, PhD Prof. Sarah Wamala Andersson, Digital Health Thought Leader Gösta Melkersson

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Explore our website!🌐🖱️ You can: 💡Sign up for our quarterly newsletter to receive more updates on our work 💡Donate to AREF 💡Get to know our existing alumni, board members and team 💡Get insights on programme updates 🔗 https://bit.ly/3PVQvBL #Africahealth #capacitybuilding #healthresearch

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