UN agency to use Ghanaian app in the fight against HIV

Betty

July 31, 2016 9:47 AM

Bisa which means ‘ask’ in the Akan language, is an app that allows users to seek medical advice without physical interaction with health professionals

Developers of a Ghanaian-made mobile application, BISA, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to help in the spread of vital information about HIV.

The announcement was made by Raindolf Owusu, the founder of Oasis Websoft, developers of BISA.

“After many months of discussions, we have signed an MOU to collaborate with the United Nations International Labour Organization to use our technology product BISA to provide information and advice on labour rights and HIV for young people in Ghana and beyond.

“Under this collaboration Bisa will be used to target young persons and provide the necessary health information at the click of a button, including options for accessing HIV counselling and testing services, treatment for STDs and HIV- related illnesses.”

Bisa which means ‘ask’ in the Akan language, is an app that allows users to seek medical advice without physical interaction with health professionals. Basically, it provides consultancy with a doctor over your smartphone.

According to the ILO’s director for Anglophone West Africa, ‘mobile technology has transformed communication among young people across Africa. Its application to healthcare can be a game changer in [the fight against HIV].”

The ILO’s partnership with Oasis Websoft offers a huge potential and a unique opportunity to increase access to…information through a channel young people use daily.

According to the United Nations’ Children Fund (UNICEF), the virus is the second leading cause of death among teenagers with girls being the most vulnerable. 65 percent of all new infections worldwide are also among adolescents.

Earlier in April, Oasis Websoft signed an agreement to develop a basic version for Facebook’s Free Basics service.

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