E-health development in Africa is set to significantly improve healthcare access for millions. This is particularly true for remote and underserved regions. The continent faces challenges in technological infrastructure. Yet, significant strides are being made to close this gap. Efforts continue to modernise healthcare systems.
Togo serves as a key example. The country has recently initiated the construction of a National Center for Digital Health (CNSD) in Lomé. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) supports this project. It seeks to leverage digital technology. This will make healthcare more accessible and efficient.
GOAL
“The National Center for Digital Health will guide the governance of digital health initiatives. It will focus on elements like interoperability and compliance.
“It will also facilitate the collection of health data for epidemiological surveillance,” said Aristide Afèignindou Gnassingbé. He is the Minister Health Advisor and National Coordinator for Digital Health in Togo.
This initiative is part of Togo’s Digital 2025 strategy, which emphasizes the role of technology in the post-pandemic health landscape. Telemedicine is a core focus of the project. It will enable services such as teleconsultations, remote monitoring, tele-ultrasound, and tele-expertise. These advances will make healthcare more accessible to those in remote areas.
The CNSD will improve direct healthcare access. It will also serve as a hub for developing and deploying digital health solutions. This enhancement will boost Togo’s crisis response capabilities through automated surveillance and better management of medical resources. The initiative also promotes the digitisation of health infrastructure across the country. It ranges from electronic medical records to training healthcare workers in the use of new technologies.
This marks a transformative step for healthcare in Africa. Togo positions itself at the forefront of integrating ICT into health. This promotes broader health equity across the region.