GMT to Revolutionize RMNCHN Microplanning with Geospatial Technology

A consortium of partners which includes Pathfinder, the Natview Foundation for Technology Innovation (NFTI), GRID3, and Data Science Nigeria (DSN), has launched the Geospatial Microplanning Toolkit (GMT) as part of the GeoST4R Project implementation. This innovative project leverages advanced geospatial data, tools, and technology to revolutionize reproductive, maternal, newborn, child health, and nutrition (RMNCHN) microplanning and decision support. Partners all contributed knowledge and resources to the GMT project, making it a major joint endeavor. The project’s primary target audience includes the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), State Ministries of Health (SMOH), the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), State Primary Health Care Development Agencies (SPHCDAs), facility service providers, Local Government Area (LGA) health officers, and RMNCHN implementing partners.

Traditionally, microplanning has been conducted using paper-based methods. The GMT seeks to digitize these traditional processes, incorporating geographical locations to facilitate easier and more precise decision-making about where resources and services are most needed. The project being implemented across the four states of Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, and Gombe is addressing several critical challenges in the RMNCHN sector. It aims to integrate disparate data sources to create a cohesive and comprehensive data management system, enhancing the use of data for evidence-based decision-making at both micro and macro levels. The project maximizes the use of available resources by directing them to the areas and people that are most vulnerable. It also aims to address the underutilization of vital services by increasing the uptake of life-saving High-Impact Interventions (HIIs) such as routine immunization, family planning, prenatal care (ANC), and facility delivery, all of which can save lives.

The GMT is a state-of-the-art digital tool designed to facilitate the dynamic integration of spatial data into microplans. This enables users to:

• Download Latest GRID3 Operational Data: Access up-to-date information on settlements, health facilities, populations, and boundaries.
• Visualize Ward-Level Microplanning Data: Enhance planning and decision-making with detailed visual data.
• Perform Spatial Calculations: Calculate catchment populations, distances to posts, and more.
• Generate Geospatial Microplanning Maps: Create detailed maps to aid in planning and resource allocation.
• Validate and Edit Spatial Data in the Field: Make necessary adjustments and updates based on field data.
• Monitor Progress with a Dashboard: Track the progress of microplanning activities.
• Upload Approved Changes to Central Database: Ensure data integrity with a robust review and approval process.

Developed by Novel-T in partnership with GRID3, NERICC, and NPHCDA, the GMT is tailored for use in routine immunization (RI). The tool has undergone rigorous testing in Kano and Lagos, with user interface tests conducted in December 2021 and October 2022, resulting in updates to better meet local governments’ needs.

The GMT tool allows users to download the latest GRID3 operational data, providing access to up-to-date information on settlements, health facilities, populations, and boundaries. It also enables the visualization of ward-level microplanning data, enhancing planning and decision-making with detailed visual insights. Additionally, users can perform spatial calculations such as catchment population estimates and distance measurements to posts, and generate geospatial microplanning maps to aid in effective planning and resource allocation.

GMT offers the capability to validate and edit spatial data in the field, allowing for necessary adjustments and updates based on real-time field data. Users can track the progress of microplanning activities through a comprehensive dashboard. After thorough review and approval by appropriate personnel, users can upload approved changes to the central database, ensuring data integrity and accuracy throughout the microplanning process.

The GMT pilot has already begun in Kano and is currently ongoing in Kaduna, with plans to extend to Lagos and Gombe. The pilot involves two LGAs in Kaduna, Chikun, and Giwa, with active participation from all partners. Training sessions precede the pilots, equipping state, LGA, and ward focal persons with the necessary technical knowledge and skills to effectively use the GMT tool.

The introduction of the Geospatial Microplanning Toolkit is a big step forward for Nigerian RMNCHN planning and service delivery, with the potential to improve health outcomes, optimize resource utilization, and strengthen health systems nationwide through the use of cutting-edge geospatial technologies. This program establishes a new standard for data-driven health planning and intervention, in addition to offering immediate advantages.