Our Story
The DSWB project aims to demonstrate the power of co-designing strategies to strengthen data systems and utilize advanced data science tools for improving data use in African health institutions.
Data systems play a critical role in modern society, particularly in improving decision-making across various fields. In Africa, while some countries have made significant strides in data science and machine learning, progress remains inconsistent. A key challenge lies in the development of interoperable data systems that enable the efficient management and processing of data.
The uneven investments in data infrastructure across the continent have limited Africa’s ability to fully harness the potential of data-driven solutions. Furthermore, limited access to synchronized data, fragmented storage systems, and insufficient legal frameworks for data protection have stymied efforts to ensure that African data is findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR). Despite existing policies and frameworks, implementing data systems that align with international standards remains a challenge.
The absence of robust data systems and effective data protection measures in Africa affects various sectors, including healthcare, education, and the environment. These gaps have hindered the continent’s ability to utilize data for addressing pressing challenges, such as pandemics and climate change. The lack of functional and integrated data systems also limits Africa’s participation in the global economy, health, and research landscapes. Addressing these gaps by investing in data systems will enable African data producers and users to actively contribute to solving local and global issues. A well-established data ecosystem can create opportunities for innovation and sustained development, ultimately improving decision-making across the continent.
The Data Science Without Borders (DSWB) project is an initiative designed to address these challenges by supporting the development of advanced data science pipelines in three African countries.
The project will tailor country-specific support based on each institution’s unique data needs and existing infrastructure. DSWB aims to strengthen data systems, foster collaboration, and build capacity for data scientists, researchers, and policymakers. By leveraging existing datasets and co-designing strategies with local institutions, the project will enhance data utilization and create platforms for applying machine learning models. This initiative is a proof of concept that showcases the potential of co-designing data systems to address country-specific challenges, thereby enabling the development of innovative solutions for health and research in Africa.
The DSWB project aims to demonstrate the power of co-designing strategies to strengthen data systems and utilize advanced data science tools for improving data use in African health institutions. The project involves several Pathfinder institutions in Ethiopia, Senegal, and Cameroon, and is designed to address country-specific health challenges through collaborative data science initiatives.
Our Vision
We envision creating a sustainable and collaborative environment for applying data science techniques in health institutions across Africa.
DSWB aims to improve the use of advanced tools like machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) to manage patient data, make predictions, and improve routine care .
