Digital Innovations and Diagnostics for Infectious Diseases in Africa (DIDIDA) Project: Transforming Healthcare through Mobile Diagnostics

The Digital Innovations and Diagnostics for Infectious Diseases in Africa (DIDIDA) project is a groundbreaking initiative funded by the European Union and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Its primary goal is to develop affordable, user-friendly diagnostic tools that integrate with mobile technology to improve the detection and management of infectious diseases across sub-Saharan Africa. By leveraging digital health solutions, DIDIDA seeks to enhance healthcare accessibility, strengthen disease surveillance, and support better clinical decision-making.

Strathmore University Business School (SBS) through the Institute of Healthcare Management plays a crucial role in advancing the DIDIDA mission by contributing to research, capacity building, and policy development.

Under research collaboration,SBS leads research initiatives focused on the adoption of diagnostic innovations in sub-Saharan Africa. This includes analyzing the regulatory landscape, economic feasibility, and ecosystem challenges that influence the uptake of digital health solutions.

PhD Fellowships and talent development. In collaboration with the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), SBS supports PhD fellowships aimed at developing independent researchers specializing in digital diagnostics and infectious disease management. This initiative fosters local expertise to drive future healthcare innovations.

When it comes to policy and ecosystem development, SBS is actively engaged in policy research and advocacy, working to create enabling regulatory environments that support the adoption of digital health innovations. By addressing socio-economic and cultural barriers, the Business School helps bridge the gap between technology development and real-world healthcare implementation.

Key Objectives of the DIDIDA Project

1. Multiplex disease detection. DIDIDA is developing advanced DNA-based molecular diagnostics capable of detecting multiple infectious diseases simultaneously. These low-cost, paper microfluidic tests are designed to be easy to use, ensuring accessibility even in remote areas without specialized healthcare professionals.
2. Digital health integration. The project focuses on linking these diagnostics to mobile platforms, enabling real-time data collection and analysis. This integration enhances disease tracking, response times, and decision-making for healthcare workers, contributing to more efficient healthcare delivery.
3. Capacity building and knowledge transfer. DIDIDA is committed to training a new generation of African researchers and healthcare professionals in digital health and diagnostic technologies. This investment in local expertise ensures sustainability and long-term impact of the project.

Learn more about the Institute of Healthcare Management here