Policy Briefs

This policy brief presents findings from a systematic review of interventions to manage vector-borne diseases (VBDs) in irrigation farming across sub-Saharan Africa. It highlights evidence of reduced vector densities, disease risk, and prevalence through approaches such as integrated vector management (IVM), larval source management, indoor residual spraying, long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, mollusciciding, biological control, and mass drug administration. The brief underscores the feasibility of integrating these interventions into irrigation schemes even post-construction, demonstrating both health and agricultural productivity benefits for surrounding communities. Download:

This policy brief presents key findings from a desk review on the integration of vector control in Malawi’s large-scale irrigation schemes. It reveals limited emphasis on water-based vector-borne diseases in national policies, a lack of coordination among key sectors such as health, agriculture, and water, and insufficient community engagement in disease prevention efforts. The brief outlines evidence-based recommendations to address these gaps and promote effective multi-sectoral collaboration. Download:

This policy brief is part of a collection written by National Tuberculosis Programmes demonstrating strengthened capacity for evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) supported by the LIGHT research programme. To achieve substantial reduction in the TB incidence, Uganda needs to implement innovative approaches that integrate TB case-finding and prevention services delivered with high coverage and intensity in high burdened communities. The NTLP in Uganda’s Ministry of Health (MoH) has implemented several initiatives to enhance TB case-finding such as the active case-finding toolkit at health facilities and community awareness, screening, testing, treatment and prevention of TB (CAST-TB) campaigns. Read more:

This policy brief is part of a collection written by National Tuberculosis Programmes demonstrating strengthened capacity for evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) supported by the LIGHT research programme. In Nigeria, the major driving factors for TB includes undernourishment, HIV, diabetes, smoking, and alcohol use disorder, with undernourishment topping the list and driving of the cases. Poverty is the major underlying cause of the undernourishment.  Provision of food and cash transfers have been shown to improve adherence to TB treatment, which leads to better treatment outcomes and reduction in disease transmission. Read more:

This policy brief is part of a collection written by National Tuberculosis Programmes demonstrating strengthened capacity for evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) supported by the LIGHT research programme. Kenya has made significant strides in reducing TB deaths by 44% compared to 2015, surpassing its target of 35% by 2021. Despite these gains, there’s been a decline in TB treatment coverage from 63% in 2018 to 59% in 2021. An effective supply chain management system ensures a consistent and uninterrupted supply of TB medications and commodities. It ensures timely and accurate distribution of TB commodities while preventing stock-outs or shortages. Read more:

This policy brief is part of a collection written by National Tuberculosis Programmes demonstrating strengthened capacity for evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) supported by the LIGHT research programme. In Malawi, the reliance on paper-based system makes documentation of cases cumbersome and time-consuming. Achieving the goal of ending TB by 2030 requires systems and processes that allow the gathering of the required patient data for effective programmatic decisions. Read more:

Kenya’s policies guide the delivery of people-centred healthcare, including TB prevention and care, through the Primary Health Care Networks comprising a primary health care referral facility (hub) and several other primary health care facilities (spokes). Person-centredness is about focusing care on the needs of people and providing care that is respectful of and responsive to individuals and communities affected by TB. However, most people with TB, who access health services in Kenya, are widely managed the same way with no attempt to distinguish care according to their circumstances.   Read more:

This policy brief presents key findings on Kenya’s progress towards achieving SDG 3 targets for maternal and child health. While improvements in immunisation and skilled birth attendance are noted, persistent challenges remain in maternal mortality and antenatal care coverage. The brief outlines subnational disparities, the limited impact of COVID-19 at the national level, and systemic issues such as health sector underfunding and coordination gaps. Click here to download

This policy brief presents key findings on Nigeria’s status as the furthest off track among the countries studied in achieving MNCAH-related SDGs. It highlights persistent high maternal mortality, low coverage of childhood vaccines and family planning services, and the impact of conflict, inadequate funding, and weak data systems. The brief provides recommendations for reversing this trend through increased domestic investment and targeted interventions in underserved regions. Click here to download

This policy brief presents key findings of the Back on Track project’s regional analysis of maternal, child, and adolescent health (MNCAH) progress across Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria. It explores how the COVID-19 pandemic affected service delivery, widened subnational disparities, and slowed momentum toward achieving SDG 3. The brief offers data-driven recommendations for restoring progress and ensuring equitable access to essential health services. Click here to download

The African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), in partnership Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND) and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), conducted a policy review and analysis on Kenyan national diagnostics policies and plans to strengthen health systems in the country. Click here to read more.

A study conducted by the Carolina Population Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), explored the influence of religion and religious beliefs on the contraceptive decision-making of adolescent and young Christian and Muslim women in Kenya’s Mombasa and Wajir counties. To read more, CLICK HERE.