By Derick Ngaira
As emerging health technologies continue to reshape healthcare systems across Africa, their successful adoption depends not only on technical feasibility and regulatory approval but also on a deep understanding of the sociocultural context in which they are introduced. The continent's rich cultural diversity, varied belief systems, and social dynamics play a critical role in determining how these technologies are perceived, accepted, and utilised by communities.
This second part of the blog series also focuses on insights from the Regional Dialogue on Leveraging Emerging Technologies to Improve Healthcare Delivery Systems in Africa, hosted by the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) on September 4–5, 2024. It explores key sociocultural considerations that must be addressed to ensure that emerging health technologies deliver on their promise of improved health outcomes for all.
Understanding cultural beliefs and practices
Africa is home to a vast array of cultures, each with its own beliefs and practices surrounding health and illness. Discussions at the regional dialogue noted that these cultural perspectives can significantly influence how new health technologies are received by different communities. It is thus essential for healthcare providers and technology developers to engage with local communities, who are often the first point of contact for many patients. By incorporating cultural beliefs into the design and implementation of health technologies, developers can enhance their acceptance and effectiveness.
The role of language and communication
Language plays a crucial role in the adoption of emerging health technologies. In many African countries, multiple languages are spoken, and literacy levels can vary widely. This diversity presents challenges in communicating the rudiments of new health technologies to the broader population. To overcome this barrier, developers should ensure that health technologies are available in multiple local languages and that user interfaces are designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, even for those with limited literacy skills.
Additionally, public health campaigns promoting these technologies should be culturally tailored and delivered through trusted channels, such as community leaders, local radio stations, and religious institutions. This approach helps to build trust and encourages widespread adoption.
The influence of religion
Religion is a powerful force in many African societies, shaping beliefs, behaviours, and attitudes toward health and technology. Religious leaders often hold significant influence and can be key allies or obstacles in the adoption of new health technologies.
For instance, some religious groups may oppose certain medical interventions or technologies based on doctrinal beliefs. On the other hand, religious leaders can also be instrumental in endorsing and promoting health technologies, particularly if these technologies align with their moral or ethical values.
Engaging with religious leaders and incorporating their perspectives into the design and deployment of health technologies could facilitate greater acceptance and uptake. For example, faith-based messaging about the benefits of telemedicine or digital health tools can resonate with religious communities and help to overcome resistance.
Community involvement
Community involvement is essential for the successful adoption of emerging health technologies. Technologies that are developed and implemented without community input are more likely to fail, as they may not align with local needs, values, or preferences.
Communities must have an active role in the development and deployment of health technologies to ensure they engender more sustainable and effective solutions. This involves not only consulting with community members of the target population during the design and testing of these technologies, but also providing opportunities for local capacity building, such as training programmes for health workers or community members, to manage and maintain these technologies.
Conclusion
Sociocultural factors such as cultural beliefs, language, religion, and community involvement play a critical role in determining the success of these technologies. By understanding and addressing these sociocultural considerations, healthcare providers, technology developers, and policymakers can ensure that these innovations make meaningful improvements in health outcomes across the continent.
The final blog article of this series will take you through ethical considerations in the adoption of emerging health technologies in Africa.