Africa remains the region of the world where health challenges are most critical. Thus, e-health represents an opportunity for the development of the sector, particularly due to the high mobile phone penetration rate on the continent and its widespread use.

On Thursday, April 18, the International Committee of Digital Health Experts in Africa (CEISNA) announced a partnership with the Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Lubumbashi (ISTM) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This agreement aims to promote digital health in Africa.

"This agreement marks a decisive step in the promotion of digital health in Africa, by uniting the efforts of CEISNA and the Higher Institute of Medical Techniques to improve healthcare access through cutting-edge technologies," CEISNA stated in a press release.

As part of this partnership, CEISNA will bring its international expertise in digital health to enhance the capabilities of the Higher Institute of Medical Techniques in the areas of training, research, and implementation of innovative health solutions.

This collaboration is part of CEISNA's efforts to promote e-health education in African universities. Earlier in April, the committee also announced a partnership with the Higher Institute of Public Health in Bamako aimed at improving health systems in Mali through digital technology.

These partnerships come at a time when African governments are increasingly looking to leverage innovative technologies in the healthcare sector. It is becoming urgent for Africa to massively develop systems incorporating artificial intelligence techniques to significantly improve care and provide effective responses to some difficult and rare diseases. According to a report by Fortune Business Insights, the global digital health market is expected to reach $559.52 billion by 2027.

Samira Njoya