Firm unveils Swahili mobile, web health application

By Fredrick Obura

Technology firm, Avallain Africa has unveiled second version of its mobile and web health application, iAfya Health Information.

The launch of iAfya version two comes with a Kiswahili module breaking the language barrier to millions of Kenyans who, Swahili is a more natural language to interact and communicate in. “At Avallain Africa, we have taken health care information to a new level. Using innovation and technology leadership; we are putting Kenya on the forefront of the social-economic transformation by offering ICT-based education and information solutions. And now in language easily accessible to majority of Kenyans,” says Ms Shelmith Mumbi Head of Content, Avallain Africa.

iAfya version two borrows heavily on feedback generated from iAfya consumers majority of whom are lay men and women thus making version two a more accessible and user friendly. One of the key feedback has been on the application ability to bridge the health-literacy gap and divide in the society.

This is achieved through generation of high quality easy to understand content that is accessible to both the under-privileged and well-placed members of our society.

In essence, whether health information consumers want to look up medical conditions, browse medical procedures, check treatment options or need basic first aid — the iAfya app will offer them answers to their everyday health questions. iAfya version 2 also goes an extra mile by having a platform where users can create a community or network of health consumers through its new ‘Forums’ feature. Under this, any individual can share his or her experiences and ideas concerning various health and wellness conditions.

With this, Avallain Africa desires that the ‘forums’ will provide an opportunity for both health professionals and the general public to come together and create awareness concerning various health issues. “Future versions of iAfya will give users tools to create personal health goals and plans as well as a deep connection to social media where iAfya users will act as social media community health workers and enlighten their friends and families on basic health care education,” says Dr John Muthee, Head of Business Development, Avallain Africa.