Healthcare innovation in Sub-Saharan Africa is rapidly evolving, driven by the need to address critical healthcare challenges such as limited access to healthcare services, high rates of infectious diseases, and growing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). With a population of over 1.1 billion people, many of whom live in rural and underserved areas,
innovations are crucial to improving healthcare delivery, accessibility, and affordability.

What innovation in healthcare looks like

Healthcare innovation means more than introducing new medicines or medical devices; it involves creating integrated solutions that address both immediate health needs and systemic barriers to care. Globally, healthcare innovation is being driven by advances in digital technologies, personalised medicine, and artificial intelligence (AI) diagnostic tools. In developed regions, this includes the development of digital health, which provides remote consultation, diagnostic services, and treatment monitoring, helping to overcome geographical barriers for patients in underserved areas. In Saharan Africa, healthcare innovation is focused on overcoming infrastructure challenges and expanding access
to self-care and wellness education. Both globally and locally, and in Sub-Saharan Africa, innovation is reshaping healthcare systems, making them more resilient, accessible, and responsive to the evolving needs of populations.

A decade of transformation – where we are as Sub-Saharan Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa presents a unique set of healthcare challenges, including limited infrastructure, a shortage of resources, and barriers related to affordability and access. Although not showing all at once, many changes are being achieved within the healthcare sector.

Over the past decade, the consumer health sector has undergone transformative growth, driven by a shift towards personalised wellness and a global demand for accessible and preventative care. Innovations in digital tools such as telemedicine and health-tracking apps, have empowered individuals to take charge of their health in real time,
fostering a proactive approach to wellness. Alongside this, there has been a surge in personalised health products from targeted vitamins and mineral supplements, dry-to-sensitive skincare solutions, eco-friendly packaging and natural-based ingredients, which is gaining importance as consumers increasingly seek brands that align with their values. These changes have reshaped consumer health, making it more responsive, inclusive and environmentally conscious.

In the realm of nutritional vitamins and minerals, due to the rise in health awareness and lifestyle health management, many consumer health companies have tailored supplements to address common nutrient deficiencies such as bleeding gums, fatigue, joint pain, and delayed wound healing which are usually linked to, for example, a lack of calcium, vitamin b, vitamin c, vitamin d, and zinc. Consumer healthcare products, particularly vitamins and supplements, have empowered individuals to manage everyday health needs independently. With the availability of essential nutrients that support immunity, energy,
mental clarity, and general well-being, consumers can now address minor ailments and manage everyday minor issues without needing to visit a doctor all the time, which can get expensive, especially for the low-income consumer. Instead of relying on medical help from a doctor for minor problems, consumers can now find over-the-counter solutions, saving both time and money.

The past decade has brought many changes in the dermatology space within the Sub-Saharan African market. With a focus on unique skin issues in the region, like sun damage and risks from unregulated skin-lightening products, there have been several public campaigns promoting safer skincare. Plus,  with the expansion of telemedicine and digital health platforms, more and more people have access to dermatological consultations than ever before, without worrying about distance. The growing popularity of the use of natural ingredients has become super popular as consumers prefer these safer skincare options. In addition to the easily accessible dermatological products, there has been a significant increase in dermatological education and training across the region to build dermatological expertise in the region. Overall, these investments in both new product innovation and community engagement continuously empower consumers to manage their skin health.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, there have been some great advancements in allergy care, making it easier for people to find over-the-counter solutions for their allergy issues. With more people living in cities and changes in lifestyle and the environment, allergies like rhinitis,
food allergies, and seasonal allergies are on the rise. To help with this, healthcare providers and companies have made antihistamines more accessible, allowing people to manage their symptoms without always needing to see a specialist. Plus, there is now a lot of useful
information available on how to recognize, prevent, and treat allergic reactions, which helps consumers handle their allergies more effectively without frequent medical visits.

Capacity building – a crucial aspect of the transformation

Capacity building has been a crucial aspect of this transformation. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, training programs, and community health initiatives have strengthened the overall healthcare system. For instance, healthcare providers have been trained to use digital health tools effectively, ensuring that they can offer remote
consultations and monitor patients’ health from a distance. Community health workers have been equipped with the knowledge and resources to educate people about self-care practices, preventive measures, and the importance of regular health check-ups. These efforts have not only improved healthcare delivery but also empowered individuals to take
control of their health.

Access to self-care has also expanded significantly. With the availability of over-the-counter products, individuals can now manage minor health issues on their own and educational campaigns have raised awareness about the importance of self-care, encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles and seek medical advice when necessary. This shift towards self-care has reduced the burden on healthcare facilities and allowed individuals to take a more active role in managing their health, and these changes have reshaped consumer health in Sub-Saharan Africa, making it more responsive, inclusive, and environmentally conscious.

What Sub-Saharan Africa can continuously adopt to succeed

Global relations and intercontinental trade have uniquely provided Sub-Saharan Africa an advantage in bringing successful healthcare innovations to the region.

The adoption of digital health platforms has the potential to change healthcare delivery in rural and underserved areas. Remote monitoring systems can help close the gap in access to health services, making it easier and more convenient for people to get care–just like what has been done successfully in places such as India and Latin America. Personalised health solutions, such as vitamin supplements and skincare products, can cater to local needs and encourage people to take charge of their health and health education initiatives delivered through social media and schools can empower individuals with health literacy,
creating a culture of preventive self-care and informed consumer choices.

Additionally, telemedicine and remote care technologies can also be expanded across Africa to keep track of consumers’ health, ensuring they get continuous care even when healthcare facilities are hard to reach. Healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa should go beyond just offering new products; it should be about creating lasting solutions that truly
empower people, patients, and communities. Innovations that fit local needs can make a real difference and improve lives across the continent.

References

*https://reliefweb.int/report/world/state-health-who-african-region-analysis-status-health-health-services-and-health
*https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/digital-health/articles/10.3389/fdgth.2023.1037113/pdf
* https://africahealthforum.afro.who.int/

* https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/1176535
*https://www.afdb.org/fileadmin/uploads/afdb/Documents/Publications/Innovative_e%E2%80%91Healthb_Solutions_in_Africa_Award.pdf
* https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1386505621000939
*https://www.discovery.co.za/corporate/health-healthcare-lies-in-digital-world
* https://africandigitalhealth.org/

    Experience next-level photography with HONOR’s AI-powered innovation

Smartphone photography has transformed how we document life, making professional-quality images accessible to everyone. From vibrant cityscapes in Johannesburg to breathtaking sunsets over Cape Town’s beaches, South Africans have embraced the art of lifestyle photography to capture their everyday moments. With the latest advancements in AI-driven smartphone cameras, global technology brand, HONOR, is redefining how users experience photography, ensuring every shot is crisp, vibrant, and full of life.

The AI HONOR Image Engine: A Game-Changer for Lifestyle Photography

HONOR’s commitment to photography innovation is evident in the AI HONOR Image Engine, which enhances image quality through cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Integrated into the HONOR Magic7 Series, this technology allows users to capture professional-grade images effortlessly, no matter the setting. Whether it’s a scenic game drive in the Kruger National Park, a street food market in Cape Town, or an intimate family gathering, the AI-powered camera optimises every shot to deliver stunning results.

AI-driven Portrait Perfection

South Africans love capturing portraits, from cultural ceremonies to everyday moments with loved ones. The Light and Shadow Portrait Large Model in the AI HONOR Image Engine ensures beautifully detailed and well-lit portraits in any lighting condition. With AI-enhanced Portrait and All-scenario Harcourt Portrait, users can create images that rival professional studio photography, even in dimly lit environments like a sunset braai or a candlelit dinner. The AI bokeh effect further enhances images by blurring the background naturally, making the subject stand out with remarkable clarity.

For those who love live events, the Stage Mode feature is perfect for music festivals like Back To The City or CottonFest. With smart brightness adjustments and shadow detailing, the AI HONOR Image Engine ensures clear, vibrant shots even in challenging concert lighting.

AI Super Zoom: Perfect for Scenery and Travel Photography

From Table Mountain’s breathtaking vistas to the rolling hills of the Eastern Cape, South Africa offers endless opportunities for landscape photography. The HONOR Magic7 Pro’s AI Super Zoom feature, powered by a 200MP Telephoto Camera, allows users to capture sharp, detailed images from afar. Whether you’re watching wildlife on a safari or capturing the Cape Winelands’ beauty, AI-enhanced resolution ensures that every detail is preserved, even at a distance.

AI Motion Sensing: Capturing Action with Precision

Whether it’s a thrilling rugby match at Loftus Versfeld or kids playing on the beach in Durban, movement is an essential part of lifestyle photography. The AI Motion Sensing Capture feature uses intelligent subject recognition to freeze action moments with precision, making it ideal for sports photography or spontaneous street scenes.

Additionally, the HD Super Burst feature allows users to take multiple shots in rapid succession, ensuring the perfect moment is never missed. Whether it’s a surfer catching a wave or a dancer mid-spin, AI-driven capture makes it easy to get the perfect action shot.

The Future of Smartphone Photography in South Africa

HONOR is pushing the boundaries of smartphone photography, making high-end imaging technology accessible to users across South Africa. By integrating AI innovations with intuitive camera systems, HONOR empowers users to capture and share their unique lifestyle experiences with unparalleled quality.

With AI-powered features enhancing portraits, landscapes, and action shots, the HONOR Magic7 Series is the perfect companion for South Africans looking to elevate their photography game. Whether you’re documenting cultural heritage, capturing nature’s beauty, or preserving everyday moments, HONOR ensures that every shot tells a story.

HONOR is steadfast in its mission to redefine the standards of AI excellence within smartphone photography, striving to provide users with the utmost intelligent capturing experience. Pioneering groundbreaking advancements in smartphone photography, HONOR stands out as the first smartphone manufacturer to seamlessly fuse the capabilities of cloud AI and on-device AI within mobile imaging, underscoring its unwavering dedication to establishing new benchmarks within the industry.

About HONOR

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

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The digital landscape is evolving rapidly, and with it comes the urgent need for more secure authentication methods. Passwords, once the cornerstone of online security, are now easy targets for cybercriminals. With these cyber threats on the rise, businesses must adapt more sophisticated security solutions, that are passwordless and hassle-free at the same time.

The limitations of passwords

Passwords have long been the standard for securing online accounts. However, they come with significant drawbacks. Passwords work on the principle of user memory, and most of them, therefore resort to passwords that are easy to remember, that may be weak, and reuse them across different online platforms, making them soft targets for cybercriminals. Statistics reveal that over 80% of hacking incidents are password-related, underscoring its vulnerability. In South Africa, where digital banking and e-commerce are rapidly expanding, the implications of these vulnerabilities are particularly concerning.

Moreover, managing numerous passwords leads to user frustration and increased operational costs for businesses. Users who set complex combinations as passwords tend to forget it more often, resulting in frequent password resets and helpdesk calls. This significantly affects the user experience and strains the business’s IT resources. As organisations seek to enhance security while improving user satisfaction, the shift towards passwordless authentication presents a viable solution.

Understanding passwordless authentication

Passwordless authentication eliminates the need for traditional passwords by utilising alternative methods such as biometrics (fingerprints or facial recognition), hardware tokens (like YubiKeys), or mobile devices for verification. These methods rely on two primary factors: possession (something the user has) and inherence (something the user is), which provide a more secure and user-friendly experience compared to traditional passwords.

The adoption of passwordless solutions is gaining momentum globally, driven by advancements in technology and increasing awareness of cybersecurity risks. In South Africa, there are companies leading the charge by implementing Fast Identity Online (FIDO2) standards to enable secure transactions without passwords. This approach not only enhances security but also streamlines user access across various platforms.

Benefits of passwordless security

Transitioning to passwordless security offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it significantly reduces the risk of data breaches associated with stolen or weak passwords. By eliminating passwords from the equation, businesses can mitigate one of the most common attack vectors exploited by cybercriminals.

Secondly, passwordless systems improve the overall user experience. Users no longer need to remember complex passwords or undergo tedious reset processes. Instead, they can authenticate quickly using biometrics or hardware tokens, leading to better satisfaction and productivity levels. This is particularly relevant in sectors like banking and e-commerce in South Africa, where customer trust is paramount.

Additionally, implementing passwordless authentication can enhance compliance with regulations aimed at protecting personal data. As legislation around data privacy tightens globally, organisations that adopt robust security measures will find it easier to meet compliance requirements and avoid costly penalties.

How IT experts facilitate passwordless transformation

While the benefits of passwordless authentication are clear, many organisations may lack the expertise or resources to implement these solutions effectively. This is where expert third-party IT companies come into play; they offer tailored cybersecurity solutions that address unique business needs while ensuring a smooth transition to passwordless systems.

These providers can conduct comprehensive assessments of existing security frameworks, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend appropriate passwordless solutions tailored to specific industry requirements. Their expertise ensures that organisations implement effective security measures and maintain ongoing support and monitoring to adapt to evolving threats.

Moreover, third-party IT companies can facilitate employee training programmes focused on new authentication methods. By educating staff about biometric security protocols or hardware token usage, businesses can foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness that extends beyond mere compliance.

As businesses navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape fraught with cyber threats, transitioning to passwordless authentication emerges as a critical strategy for enhancing security and improving user experience. The limitations of traditional passwords are becoming more apparent, prompting organisations to seek innovative solutions that leverage advanced technologies.

By partnering with expert third-party IT companies, businesses can effectively implement passwordless systems tailored to their unique needs while ensuring robust protection against cyber threats. Embracing this shift not only safeguards sensitive information but also positions organisations at the forefront of a more secure digital future. As we move towards an era where passwords may become obsolete, those who adapt early will reap significant rewards in security resilience and customer trust.

The touchscreen is the main way you interact with your smartphone. As such, an unresponsive screen or ‘ghost touch’ (apps opening by themselves or icons acting like you’re touching them) can make your device unusable.

Causes of these issues may include glitchy apps, overheating, faulty chargers, a dirty or wet screen, and damage or faults in the screen.

TCL suggests some possible fixes for a smartphone screen that is misbehaving.

Restart the smartphone: A simple restart is a good place to start troubleshooting your faulty screen. In many cases, a forced restart or switching the phone off and on again will fix the problem.

Clean your smartphone display: Moisture or accumulated dirt can cause your screen to stop working. Using a soft, moist cloth to wipe your touchscreen and then gently drying it often resolves the issue.

Shut apps down one by one: Occasionally, a glitchy app is the cause of your smartphone’s weird behaviour. Close apps down one by one to eliminate the possibility that one of them is causing the issue.

Tap each corner of the phone: When a touchscreen stops working after a phone is dropped, an internal connection might be loose. Gently tapping on each corner of the phone may cause it to reconnect.

Replace your charger: If you experience screen problems using your phone while it’s plugged in, a low quality or unofficial cable or charger might be the cause. Try a different charger to see what happens.

Scan for malware: It doesn’t happen that often, but in rare instances, a malware infection can cause ghost touch. Use Google Play Protect or an antivirus app to check for potentially harmful apps on your phone. You can also go to Settings, Storage, Cleanup to remove unused apps, app data, and files from your phone.

Remove the case and screen protector: Dust or moisture can get between the protector and the screen. Remove the case and protector, then wipe the screen to test. When you get a new screen protector, get a high-quality one and ensure it’s fitted properly.

Factory-reset your device and ensure you have the latest version of Android: Very occasionally, your problems could be due to a software glitch. Resetting your device to its factory settings and downloading the latest version of Android may fix the problem.

Visit the repair shop: When all else fails, find a reputable service centre and ask them to take a look. They’ll be able to tell you what the issue is and, if necessary, repair or replace your screen.