Mobile technology brings health solutions

BOTSWANA

By John Churu, Gaborone, Botswana

After realising that not only government has the prerogative of keeping the health of its citizens in check, Mascom Wireless in Botswana has stepped in to fill the gap through mobile technology solutions.

Mascom CEO Jose Couceiro told delegates that had gathered to witness the official opening for its Innovation Centre that “Mascom strongly believes that access to quality healthcare should not be compromised by distances from urban and better facilities.”

He added: “Through our Mobile Health (m-Health) initiative, we contribute to Botswana’s Vision of “A Healthy Nation”.  We are in collaboration with an NGO called Positive Innovation for the Next Generation (PING).”

According to the Mascom chief, PING runs cell-phone based health projects and mentors local youth in IT. Mascom and PING share the goal of supporting Botswana by strengthening the health care system.

Mascom and PING have partnered to deliver projects of national significance including the Kgakololo Project, the Disease Surveillance and Mapping Project, Lab Test Results Project and Safe Male Circumcision initiative.

The Disease Surveillance and Mapping Project is a Malaria Project, which was piloted with 16 medical facilities in the Chobe District. This project is of national importance and has received international recognition.