eHealth Africa is calling for stronger collaboration and innovative use of geographic information systems (GIS) to advance global health equity in the country.
The call was made during an annual event commemorating World GIS Day 2025, where geospatial intelligence experts, public health workers, researchers and development partners are determined to expand the impact of geospatial technology across Africa.
Abdulhamid Yahaya, Deputy Director for Global Health Informatics at eHealth Africa, gave opening remarks and highlighted the role of GIS in shaping the future of health systems, emphasizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration.
Hahaha noted that World GIS Day 2025, with the theme “GIS for Global Health Equity: Embracing the Age of Geography Generalists,” inspires and reflects the important role of GIS in advancing global health equity.
“In this room and in our virtual audience, we have innovators, practitioners, researchers, and advocates who have applied geospatial intelligence to strengthen public health across Africa and beyond,” Yahaya said.
“GIS is most powerful when health professionals, technologists, policy makers, and community leaders come together to share knowledge, coordinate strategies, and co-create solutions.
“Your contributions are essential to driving meaningful impact. Today promises rich learning, innovative debate, and positive action to shape stronger, more equitable health systems across the continent.”
Meanwhile, Dr Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, Director General of Geographical Information Systems (KANGIS), advocated multi-sectoral cooperation and showcased the country’s progress in the field of geospatial infrastructure.
He said the state has resumed investment in enterprise GIS and strengthened Kano’s system, which now generates a monthly revenue of over N750 million compared to N50 million previously, as Africa is currently ranked third in the world in GIS-related public health publications.
“GIS is no longer just land management; it is spatial data for planning, security, environmental monitoring and sustainable development,” Dr. Sani added.
Also, Mr. Oros-ghene Adia, Deputy Director and Technical Head of CORE Group Partner Projects, highlighted the transformative role of GIS in eradicating diseases and providing health services.
He explained that GIS has the potential to reveal where people live, where diseases are occurring, and how services can effectively reach those people. He cited ongoing challenges, including limited skills and infrastructure gaps, but expressed optimism that advocacy and innovation would close these gaps.
Organized by eHealth Africa, World GIS Day 2025 featured presentations, panel discussions and exhibitions showcasing innovations across health, agriculture, security and urban development.
The event reinforced the message that cross-disciplinary collaboration, supported by geospatial intelligence, is essential to building an equitable, resilient, and data-driven health system. This work continues to be promoted by eHealth Africa across the region.
