AI Workshop in Zimbabwe: Transforming Health Research
In June 2025, experts from Britain and Africa gathered in Harare to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) can advance health research and contribute to healthier communities. The three-day workshop, organised by Dr Felicity Fitzgerald from Imperial’s Department of Infectious Disease, was funded by the Wellcome Trust and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and hosted by the University of Zimbabwe.
AI is increasingly influencing health research worldwide and offers significant opportunities for Zimbabwe and the African continent. However, Zimbabwean researchers across various disciplines have yet to fully leverage AI’s capabilities. Beyond technical skills, effective AI application in health demands an awareness of ethical, social, and local factors.
Workshop Objectives
- Encourage Zimbabwean researchers to incorporate AI into current and future health projects.
- Build foundational knowledge of AI techniques, including potential risks and challenges.
- Promote collaborative development of grant proposals via small-group sessions with faculty and early career researchers from the University of Zimbabwe, BRTI, and partner institutions.
- Create lasting networks between Zimbabwean academics and international experts for ongoing collaboration.
Keynote Lectures
The workshop opened with talks from leading national and international figures, engaging academics, students, NGOs, and community groups.
- Professor Payam Barnaghi from Imperial’s Department of Brain Sciences presented “How Machine Learning Can Improve Child Healthcare?” He discussed scalable AI solutions for paediatric care and is also Co-Director of Imperial’s School of Convergence Science in Human and Artificial Intelligence.
- Professor Ceire Costelloe, Group Leader in Health Informatics at the Institute of Cancer Research and Visiting Professor at Imperial’s School of Public Health, spoke on “Harnessing the Power of Real-World Healthcare Data to Drive Innovation in Data Science.” She highlighted how electronic health records and predictive models can enhance healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
- Dr Simbarashe Chimhuya, Zimbabwe Principal Investigator of Neotree and PhD student at UCL, alongside Dr Felicity Fitzgerald, presented “Neotree, a Learning Health System.” This digital platform aims to improve newborn care by bringing AI directly to vulnerable infants in Zimbabwe and Malawi, under the leadership of Professor Michelle Heys at UCL.
A networking reception hosted at the British Ambassador’s Residence in Harare followed the lectures. Subsequent days featured expert sessions on AI concepts for Zimbabwean early career researchers (PhD and postdoctoral levels), with examples drawn from Imperial’s global research. Discussions included the benefits and risks of scaling AI within Zimbabwe’s health context.
Impact and Reflections
Professor Attwell Mamvuto, Pro Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Administration at the University of Zimbabwe, told ZiFM radio: “This workshop bridges medical practice and digital innovation. It strengthens the relationship between Zimbabwe and the UK and promotes skills sharing and knowledge transfer for our participants.”
Deputy British Ambassador Dr Jo Abbot highlighted the value of African-led health innovation. She noted the workshop provided a platform to explore how local solutions can improve health outcomes across Africa.
The event concluded with a pitching competition where 25 early career researchers from various Zimbabwean institutions presented AI-based health improvement ideas. After mentoring from local and visiting Imperial faculty, participants pitched to a panel including university leadership and the Deputy Ambassador.
Kevin Meck, a participant, shared: “Having never pitched before, this was a valuable experience. I learned how to present technical ideas to a diverse audience. My next pitch will be much stronger, and these skills are invaluable for my current work and PhD.”
Cyprian Masvikeni, the youngest researcher at 25, earned second runner-up with his project Shanduko AI, a WhatsApp chatbot offering culturally relevant sexual and reproductive health information to reduce teenage pregnancies. He said: “This recognition motivates me to develop digital solutions that truly serve communities. The mentorship and connections made have boosted my confidence and dedication to health innovation in Zimbabwe.”
Participants left equipped with new knowledge, fresh collaborations, and actionable ideas. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and building AI capacity for health, the workshop marked a significant step in empowering Zimbabwean researchers to lead digital health innovation.
For those interested in expanding their AI skills relevant to health and research, exploring courses at Complete AI Training can provide practical knowledge and tools.
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