Across sub-Saharan Africa, infectious diseases continue to challenge communities and health systems. At the same time, huge amounts of valuable health data – for example, from health facilities,  hospitals, registries and research programs – often remain underused. The BRIDGE NETWORK is working to change that.

The BRIDGE NETWORK is an EU (EDCTP3) funded collaborative program bringing together partners from six African and two European countries to strengthen research capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa. The goal is simple: to train a new generation of skilled experts who can use health data and modern digital tools to better understand and respond to infectious diseases affecting communities across the region. 

To achieve this, the project will establish six Centers of Excellence in sub-Saharan Africa. These centers are vibrant hubs for learning, conducting field research, and managing reliable health data – places where trainees gain hands-on experience with real-world health information, supported by international mentors and technical experts. 

The BRIDGE NETWORK will support professionals at different stages of their careers, including postgraduate trainees, 8 PhD candidates, and 2 post-doctoral fellows. All will be trained in health informatics and data sciences, with a focus on using health systems data for tackling infectious diseases. These individuals will be equipped with new skills to analyze complex and fragmented health data, draw valuable insights, and contribute to improved health policies and systems in their countries. 

By the end of the 54-month program, the BRIDGE NETWORK aims to have built a strong and sustainable pipeline of African researchers and leaders who can drive impactful research locally and collaboratively. With continued mentorship, strengthened institutional capacity, and shared learning across countries, this initiative seeks to empower African public health institutions to lead the generation of data-driven evidence that benefits patients, health systems, and communities across the region. Read more from the BRIDGE NETWORK Project Brief