MTN and Gates Foundation launch AI program in Nigeria — Premium Times Nigeria
MTN Group Foundation and the Gates Foundation have launched the Nigeria Maternal Health Multiplier program in Nigeria, which is intended to help detect complications during pregnancy and childbirth earlier. The initiative involves the use of artificial intelligence, mobile technologies and improved internet connectivity to support pregnant women, healthcare workers and medical facilities, Premium Times Nigeria reports.
Goals through 2030
According to the project participants, by 2030 it is expected to reach 500,000 women, provide 5,000 healthcare workers with digital tools and support 500 healthcare facilities in order to make maternal health services more resilient. MTN and the Gates Foundation's initial investment for 2026–2030 will amount to about $25 million in direct and in-kind contributions.
The four-year partnership was announced during the Semafor Next three billion event, held on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
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Tools for women and healthcare workers
The program will combine AI-based phone decision-support tools for pregnant women and healthcare workers, affordable smartphones and mobile internet for women, as well as improved network connectivity at primary healthcare facilities. These solutions are expected to help healthcare workers recognize warning symptoms faster and enable women to receive verified information during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period.
The statement notes that Nigeria accounts for nearly 30% of all maternal deaths worldwide. It also states that 59% of women undergo at least four antenatal check-ups, meaning dangerous symptoms may go unnoticed. The initiative is intended to complement the MAMII government program to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, which is being implemented under the approach of Nigeria's Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
