When a woman is screened for cervical cancer, the next steps should be clear, coordinated and guaranteed.
Too many patients experience delays, incomplete referrals or disconnected records between clinics and hospitals.
Nearly 70 percent of cervical cancer cases in South Africa are diagnosed at advanced stages.
When detected early, five-year survival rates can exceed 90 percent.
Late diagnosis not only reduces survival chances but significantly increases treatment costs for the public health system.
The Digital Health Symposium, hosted by Nelson Mandela University’s Centre for Community Technologies in partnership with Movement Health Foundation, will explore how digital infrastructure based on trust and accountability can strengthen continuous care.
Ezekwesili, former Vice President of the World Bank for Africa, will deliver the keynote address titled “From Governance to Dignity: Building Trusted Digital Health Wallets for Africa’s Health Systems.”
Her lecture will focus on how governance, trusted data and institutional accountability are essential to building resilient health systems.
“This is not just about technology,” said Bogi Eliasen, CEO of Movement Health Foundation. “It is about dignity. When a woman enters the health system, she should not disappear between appointments. Trusted digital systems can ensure that once she is screened, she remains visible until treatment is complete.”
The programme features leading South African experts, including Dr Carl van Heerden on implementing digital health solutions and Dr Lebogang Semenya on governance and equity in health systems. A cross-sector panel discussion, facilitated by Estelle Ellis of Daily Maverick, will bring together experts in health systems strengthening, oncology care and digital innovation.
Discussions will focus on Digital Health Wallets linked to secure patient identifiers — infrastructure designed to help clinics, laboratories and hospitals track referrals, confirm follow-up and support earlier treatment.
The event positions Gqeberha as a hub for dialogue on how governance, technology and trust intersect in building stronger, more equitable health systems in South Africa and across Africa.
“Digital trust is fundamental to advancing women’s cancer care because it determines whether technology becomes a barrier or a bridge to life-saving support,” said Prof Darelle van Greunen, Director of the Centre for Community Technologies and the project lead at Nelson Mandela University.
“We invite healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers and community partners to join us at the symposium as we explore how trusted digital health ecosystems can empower women, strengthen care pathways and improve outcomes across our communities.”
The symposium will take place on 11 March from 09:00 to 12:00 at the University’s Science Centre on Ocean Sciences Campus, with a livestream option available.
Health professionals, policymakers, researchers, digital innovators and community leaders are encouraged to attend.
Register here