Secure data management processes are crucial for maintaining the confidentiality of health data, especially after the enactment of the Data Protection Act of 2021. To enhance data management processes in health facilities, the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), through its PROUDZ project, has been supporting the Ministry of Health in developing a data governance framework that provides clear guidelines for data access, sharing, and use in the health sector.

CIDRZ Strategic Information Manager Jacob Mutale says further support by CIDRZ under CDC’s Global Public Health Data Innovation (GPHDI) program includes the development of a pioneering health informatics curriculum at the University of Zambia (UNZA), introduction of short courses to be offered by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Zambia and developing a Monitoring and Evaluation framework to track progress made in achieving the goals as outlined in the Ministry of Health 2022 to 2026 Digital Health Strategy.

He adds, “Other notable achievements under this initiative include the development of a novel health informatics competency framework and the development of Terms of Reference (TORs) for the MOH Digital Health Technical Working Group.”

Mr Mutale said this during a recent meeting with a visiting delegation from CDC Atlanta, who are in the country to receive updates from all in-country partners implementing the GPHDI program.