Innovations & Solutions

Designing scalable, low-cost health technologies and creative solutions that address real community needs — turning research insights into practical tools for wellness.

Turning evidence into practical solutions

The Innovations and Solutions Department transforms research findings into tangible products, services, and systems that improve health outcomes. We bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application by designing solutions that are affordable, accessible, and context-appropriate for African communities.

Using human-centered design, rapid prototyping, and iterative testing, we develop interventions ranging from simple behavioral tools to digital health platforms. Our focus is on scalability — ensuring that what works in one community can be adapted and expanded across regions.

We collaborate closely with researchers, community members, technologists, and health practitioners to ensure our innovations are evidence-informed and demand-driven.

8+

Active innovation projects

5+

Prototypes developed

3

Design workshops conducted

Innovation labs & focus areas

Digital Health Lab

Developing mobile health applications, SMS reminders, and data collection tools for community health workers and patients.

Diagnostic Solutions Lab

Creating low-cost diagnostic aids, screening tools, and point-of-care testing innovations for resource-limited settings.

Behavioral Design Lab

Designing nudges, communication tools, and behavior change interventions based on behavioral economics and psychology.

Training Innovation Lab

Developing interactive learning modules, simulation tools, and capacity-building resources for health workers.

Assistive Technology Lab

Creating affordable assistive devices for elderly and disabled community members — mobility aids, communication boards.

Data Visualization Lab

Building dashboards and visual tools that make complex health data understandable for communities and policymakers.

From insight to impact

1

Discover

Community needs assessment and problem identification through research and dialogue.

2

Ideate

Co-creation workshops generating potential solutions with community stakeholders.

3

Prototype

Rapid, low-fidelity prototyping to test concepts and gather feedback.

4

Test & Iterate

Pilot testing with real users, refining based on evidence and experience.

5

Scale

Partnership-driven scaling and integration into existing health systems.

Current innovation projects

M-Health Reminder System

SMS and voice reminders for medication adherence and clinic appointments, designed for low-literacy users.

Community Health Dashboard

Visual, real-time tracking of community health indicators for CHPs and facility managers.

Wellness Navigation Tool

A decision-support tool helping community members identify appropriate health services.

Innovation in action

Hypertension self-monitoring toolkit

A low-cost toolkit including a simplified blood pressure logbook, pictorial instructions, and peer support guides — piloted with 20 patients, showing 35% improvement in medication adherence.

Peer health coaching model

Trained community members delivering structured health coaching for diabetes management using culturally-adapted materials. Reached 50+ individuals across two counties.

Collaborate on health innovation

We welcome partnerships with technologists, designers, academic institutions, and funders interested in co-creating scalable health solutions for African communities.

Partner with Innovation Lab →