Despite the numerous challenges faced by Nigeria’s healthcare sector, ehealth Africa has achieved a significant milestone by delivering over 9 million doses of vaccines through solution analysis to bolster healthcare services in the country. Atef Fawaz, the Executive Director of ehealth Africa, revealed this achievement during the 2023 Insight Learning Forum organized by the company.
Fawaz emphasized the paramount importance of Nigeria’s healthcare system to ehealth Africa, considering the potential impact of digital solutions in addressing challenges. He highlighted that their solutions are driven by an in-depth analysis of the problems at hand, and the vaccine delivery solution was specifically designed to ensure equitable vaccine distribution, overcoming logistical hurdles, and promoting transparency.
The vaccine delivery project was successfully implemented in Kano, Bauchi, and Zamfara, and it is currently ongoing in Sokoto State. The system facilitates effective monitoring of vaccine stocks, requests for new supplies, and ensures timely delivery even in remote areas, significantly reducing stockouts. The positive impact of this initiative is evident in the delivery of more than 9 million vaccine doses, particularly benefiting children aged zero to five who receive routine immunizations.
While acknowledging the existing challenges, Fawaz expressed confidence in the innovative capabilities of Nigerians to address them effectively. He highlighted the abundance of talent and skills within the country, which, when harnessed properly, can lead to world-leading solutions.
Jamil Galadanci, Senior Manager of Software Engineering in Software Engineering Global Health Informatics Units at ehealth Africa, shared details about their digital solution called the Lomis Logistic Management Information System. This system was developed to combat the high percentage of stockouts in health facilities across Nigeria, which previously resulted in unvaccinated children. The Lomis system enhances vaccine delivery and management by providing real-time visibility of vaccine availability, improving accountability, transparency, and overall efficiency.
Pharmacist Murtala Bello, Director of Pharmaceutical Services and Logistics Officer at the Primary Health Care Development Agency in Sokoto State, praised the impact of ehealth Africa’s digital solutions on healthcare delivery. Their partnership with ehealth Africa and the implementation of the Lomis Deliver software have significantly reduced vaccine stockouts, thereby increasing vaccine accessibility and immunization coverage in Sokoto State.
The Insight Learning Forum organized by ehealth Africa serves as a valuable platform for sharing knowledge and experiences regarding digital solutions that aim to enhance healthcare services in Nigeria. With a strong commitment to innovative solutions, ehealth Africa continues to make strides in improving healthcare access and delivery across the country.