Stowelink Foundation made waves at the 6th Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Conference in Malta with the presentation of its flagship project, NCDs 365, by founder Ogweno Stephen. The conference, held earlier this year, brought together nurses, midwives, and healthcare professionals from across the Commonwealth to discuss critical health issues, innovations, and solutions.

What is the NCDs 365 Project?

NCDs 365 is a revolutionary digital health initiative designed by Stowelink Foundation to leverage technology and social media in the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in sub-Saharan Africa. The project, spanning over multiple countries, uses platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Twitter to disseminate daily health information, resources, and tips on preventing and managing NCDs such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.

The app not only provides educational content but also incorporates tools for users to self-monitor their health, record medical data, and engage with healthcare professionals. It has been widely adopted by community health workers and civil society organizations, creating a network of advocates across 10 countries in Africa. The project’s integration of digital health solutions with grassroots advocacy is a shining example of how technology can be harnessed to promote health literacy and empower communities.

The Malta Presentation

Ogweno Stephen presented the NCDs 365 project on the first day of the Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Conference. His presentation highlighted the journey and impact of the initiative, showcasing how it has reached over 3.5 million people in sub-Saharan Africa through health literacy campaigns and digital interventions. By focusing on community-centered approaches and youth engagement, Stowelink has made significant strides in closing the gap on NCD awareness and prevention in under-resourced areas.

Key Highlights from the Presentation

• Technological Integration: Ogweno outlined how the NCDs 365 App is equipped with features like health tracking, mental health self-tests, and access to podcasts and video resources to provide users with holistic health management solutions.
• Cross-Continental Impact: The project, through its digital health campaigns, has empowered community health workers, civil society organizations, and patient groups, allowing them to champion NCD prevention and management in their regions.
• Sustainability: Ogweno emphasized that the NCDs 365 platform was designed as a public health good, offering free resources and support to its users, making it accessible to low-income populations and ensuring long-term impact.

The Importance of NCD Awareness in Sub-Saharan Africa

The importance of the NCDs 365 project cannot be overstated, especially as NCDs continue to rise in sub-Saharan Africa. With a majority of healthcare systems in the region focusing on infectious diseases, the burden of NCDs often goes unnoticed. The initiative aims to change this by providing education and resources that encourage early detection, lifestyle changes, and better management of chronic conditions.

Conclusion

The presentation of NCDs 365 at the Malta Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Conference was not just a milestone for Stowelink Foundation but also a recognition of the critical work being done to bridge healthcare gaps through technology. As the project continues to grow and scale, the hope is that it will not only transform lives in Africa but also serve as a model for global health interventions in the digital age.

Stay tuned for more updates on the NCDs 365 project and the amazing impact it’s making across Africa!