Ogweno Stephen has received physical copies of Digitalizing Health Care Supply Chains in Africa, a new academic book published by Springer, in which he co-authored two chapters examining the role of digital health interventions in strengthening health literacy, addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving access to diagnostic technologies across Africa.

The publication marks another contribution to Stephen’s growing body of research at the intersection of public health, digital innovation and health systems strengthening. His two chapters explore how mobile health technologies and digital diagnostic solutions can help address persistent gaps in healthcare delivery, particularly in African settings where access to health information, early diagnosis and appropriate care remains uneven.

The book is part of the Springer Series in Supply Chain Management (SSSCM, Volume 28). It examines recent developments in the application of digital and innovative technologies to strengthen healthcare supply chains across Africa.

Although digital technologies have demonstrated considerable potential to improve supply chain visibility, efficiency and performance in developed countries, their adoption and implementation in African health systems present distinct opportunities and challenges. The book brings together research and practical insights into how these technologies are being applied in African countries, what is working, the barriers encountered and the lessons that can inform future implementation.

Two Research Chapters on Digital Public Health

Stephen contributed to two chapters, bringing together perspectives on mobile health, NCD prevention, digital diagnostics and the practical application of technology in African healthcare systems.

1. Leveraging Mobile Health Interventions to Improve Health Literacy and Combat Non-Communicable Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa

Pages 151–166

Co-authors: Stephen Ogweno, Harrison Roger, George William Kajjumba and Dorcus Bateefu Nakiganda.

This chapter examines the potential of mobile health interventions to strengthen health literacy and support efforts to prevent and address non-communicable diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa.

With NCDs accounting for an increasingly significant share of the disease burden across the region, access to reliable health information and opportunities for early intervention are essential. Mobile health technologies offer opportunities to reach populations with health education, improve awareness of risk factors and support more informed decisions about prevention and care.

The chapter contributes to the growing evidence base on how digital interventions can be applied to address public health challenges while recognising the importance of adapting solutions to the realities of African health systems and communities.

2. Lifesten Health: Quick Diagnostic Mobile Application for Non-Communicable Disease

Pages 167–180

Co-authors: Marcia Mkansi, Stephen Ogweno, Frank Ranganai Matenda and Peace Iraguha.

The second chapter examines Lifesten Health, a digital health innovation focused on supporting the quick assessment and identification of potential NCD risks through a mobile application.

The contribution reflects Stephen’s work as Co-founder and CEO of Lifesten Health, where he has been involved in developing technology-enabled approaches to preventive healthcare and chronic disease management.

The chapter highlights the role that mobile applications can play in making health assessment more accessible and supporting earlier engagement with NCD prevention and care. It also adds to discussions on how African-led digital health innovations can respond to gaps in traditional healthcare delivery.

Advancing Digital Health Research in Africa

The two contributions reflect complementary dimensions of digital public health: using technology to improve health literacy and developing practical digital tools that support NCD assessment and prevention.

For Stephen, this work is part of a broader commitment to strengthening health systems through research, innovation and evidence-informed public health practice. His work across NCD advocacy, implementation research and digital health continues to explore how technology can move beyond innovation for its own sake and contribute to more accessible, responsive and sustainable healthcare.

The publication also reinforces the importance of African research and innovation in shaping the future of digital healthcare. As countries across the continent invest in digital transformation, locally grounded research is essential to understanding which technologies work, the conditions required for successful implementation and how innovations can be adapted to different health system contexts.

Receiving the physical copies of the book marks a tangible milestone in this research journey and recognises the collaborative work of the authors contributing to the growing body of knowledge on digitalising healthcare in Africa.

Book details

Digitalizing Health Care Supply Chains in Africa

Publisher: Springer

Series: Springer Series in Supply Chain Management

Volume: 28

Stephen Ogweno’s contributions:

• Leveraging Mobile Health Interventions to Improve Health Literacy and Combat Non-Communicable Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Lifesten Health: Quick Diagnostic Mobile Application for Non-Communicable Disease

Explore the Springer Series in Supply Chain Management.