This essay is part of a special collection of youth authored essays written by DTH-Lab’s Regional Youth Champions (2023-2024). The full collection of essays can be found here in the partnering document of the global interim report on Building a blueprint for digital first health systems: Findings from global youth consultations.
As a Regional Youth Champion (RYC) based in Nairobi, Kenya, focusing on data science and research for digital health technologies, I am eager to delve into the imperative of developing a digital first health system tailored to the needs of young people in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Defining digital first in youth health
In the context of Sub-Saharan Africa, a digital first health system means leveraging technology to address the specific health concerns of youth. My primary focus area is mental health, recognizing its growing significance among the youth in this region.
Customized solutions for youth needs
A digital first health system should prioritize mental health support, offering user-friendly applications providing resources, counselling services, and personalized interventions. Accessibility is crucial, especially considering the diverse socio-economic backgrounds prevalent in the region.
Investments for success
Successful implementation requires substantial investments at both national and community levels. Financial resources are essential for developing and maintaining robust technological infrastructure, ensuring seamless connectivity. Simultaneously, investing in human resources, including training healthcare professionals and community health workers, is vital for effective utilization and outreach.
Transforming sub-Saharan Africa's health systems
Sub-Saharan Africa is undergoing a transformative shift toward digital first health systems. Telemedicine, mobile health apps and data-driven strategies are being adopted to enhance healthcare delivery. Strengths lie in improved accessibility to remote areas and efficient healthcare delivery. Challenges include inadequate infrastructure, limited digital literacy and disparities in technology access.
Navigating strengths and weaknesses
Digital transformation’s strengths in Sub-Saharan Africa include bridging healthcare gaps, especially in rural areas, through initiatives like telemedicine. However, weaknesses such as the digital divide and cybersecurity concerns must be addressed. Collaborative efforts are essential to ensure equitable access and safeguard sensitive health information.
Achieving a digital first health system requires tailoring solutions to the unique needs of young people. Prioritizing mental health, ensuring accessibility and addressing challenges specific to Sub-Saharan Africa are key. Success demands strategic investments in financial and human resources, coupled with an understanding of transformational strengths and weaknesses.
As RYC, I am committed to contributing to this dialogue, fostering collaboration and advocating for policies prioritizing the digital well-being of Sub-Saharan Africa’s youth. Through collective action, we can pave the way for a future where digital health technologies catalyse positive change in healthcare delivery for the benefit of all.
Philip Yauma is a dynamic and results-driven professional specializing in project coordination, data analysis, research, and monitoring and evaluation
