Promoting digitalization of the health system in São Tomé and Príncipe
In the small island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe, Alex Mkwamba serves as a UN Volunteer Epidemiologist with the UN Development Programme (UNDP). Hailing from Zimbabwe, he is using digital technologies to transform the healthcare system.
In close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, World Health Organization (WHO), UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) and International Labour Organization (ILO), Alex has made strides in improving the capacity and motivation of health workers to adopt digitalization in health data management.
Delivering life-changing health care in Guinea Bissau
On World Health Day 2023, the global community emphasizes the importance of accessible and equitable health care for all. In Guinea Bissau, specialized UN Volunteers are servicing the health sector and delivering impressive results. They are hosted by the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), World Health Organization (WHO), UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) and UN Development Programme (UNDP).
Dr Sonia Bako (Niger) is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with UNFPA. On her watch at Buba Health Centre, Quinara region, maternal deaths have been reduced drastically.
Dr Bako, 51 years old, is in charge of community maternal and reproductive health care at the health centre. She contributes to UNFPA's mandate in ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe and that every young person reaches their full potential.
Using data and capacity building to enhance Sudan’s health system
As countries move towards attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring good health and wellbeing remains a top global priority. This story highlights the contributions of two UN Volunteers to the public health system in Sudan, which is severely affected by years of underfunding. The situation is further complicated by humanitarian needs reaching record levels in the country.
Serving as a Public Health Specialist with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Khartoum, national UN Volunteer Mohamed Maher Saad works closely with the Federal Ministry of Health in data collection. He is supporting the development of a digital library which will make a health database and research available to medical personnel and students, who can also use it to publish studies and research papers.
Helping patients and families recover from Ebola virus infection
Twenty UN Volunteers have been at the forefront of the World Health Organization’s response to the Ebola virus outbreak in Uganda. Meet Arinaitwe and Maria, who have been providing health and psychosocial support as specialized UN Volunteers.
Arinaitwe Mary Immaculate, Psychosocial Support Officer with WHO Uganda
Arinaitwe is an experienced psychologist who has been practicing in mental health and psychosocial support for over four years. Following years of building her skills, she became a national UN Volunteer, aspiring to grow professionally and network with experts from various disciplines.