Enhancing monitoring and evaluation of digital health interventions in sub-Saharan Africa: big data, mHealth, and dashboards

Abstract

Digital health interventions based on digital and mobile technologies are essential for advancing healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa. However, challenges with their effective monitoring and evaluation (M&E) continue to impact their scalability and sustainability. Here we propose a set of innovative strategies to strengthen M&E frameworks, including integrating big data analytics and artificial intelligence for real-time impact assessment, leveraging mHealth platforms for enhanced data collection and stakeholder engagement, and developing interactive digital dashboards for transparent decision-making. These strategies aim to optimise digital health interventions implementation and evaluation, addressing critical healthcare access and outcome challenges exacerbated by a shortage of healthcare professionals in the region. By enhancing M&E capabilities, these approaches maximise the impact of digital health technologies in improving public health across sub-Saharan Africa.