About us

Providing Data-Driven Solutions to Global Health Challenges

Delivering precise, data-driven insights to address global health challenges, enhancing policy-making, and improving health outcomes for communities worldwide.

Our Vision

To be a trusted source for evidence supporting and evaluating progress towards health and development goals.

Our Mission

To lead a coordinated approach by the world’s health and demographic surveillance systems to provide timely longitudinal evidence across the range of transitioning settings to understand and improve population health and development policy and practice.

Value Proposition

INDEPTH’s on-going longitudinal health and demographic tracking across the Network of independent population-based Centres operating in different systems and cultures enable our scientists and scientific partners to offer a unique vehicle for the study of the impact of policy and practice and the development and validation of effective interventions

ABOUT US

Our Work Promise to Uphold the trust placed

The International Network for the continuous Demographic Evaluation of Population Health in developing countries (INDEPTH Network), was established in 1998 as a public good. Over the two decades the INDEPTH Network has coordinated the activities of its members to strengthen HDSS core capacities, harmonize various methodologies for data production, improved their ability to conduct large multi‐site investigations that answer questions that cannot be addressed with single individual entities and widely shared both data and results that emanates from such activities.

26

YEARS

OF EXPERIENCE
countries
0 +
population
0 +
sites
0 +
projects
0 +

The INDEPTH Network provides a robust large-scale health and demographic surveillance systems across developing countries that is available to address current global health challenges. The current global health threats such as emerging and re-emerging diseases, the quest to find cure for existing communicable and noncommunicable diseases presents INDEPTH as a unique platform to conduct research and undertake intervention studies to find solutions to these challenges in the developing world. 

The Network presents a universal approach to conducting large multi-center research based on its strength in surveillance, updated vital events-registration system, emphasis on mortality monitoring and tracking of migration. The Network’s ability to offer a unique opportunity of innovative data capture mechanism, advance data analytics, and real-time data reporting systems, enhances data accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness in conducting research in the Sub- Saharan Africa region.
The INDEPTH Network remains pivotal in the continuing need for longitudinal health research that responds to urgent health issues in African and globally. Closely linked to this is the unprecedented opportunity to develop low cost, data-accessible, and user-friendly technology for longitudinal observation of populations. Software innovations, communication tools, AI capabilities, and inference tools expand opportunities for collaboration, exchanges, and capacity-building that are best addressed by a scientific network that builds regional links between scientists as well as collaborative links with research institutions in Europe, Asia, and North America.

This document provides the profile of 16 INDEPTH Sites in 10 countries, comprising a population of over 2.9 million people in East, West and Southern Africa. The document captures the following details of each site: institutional profile; geographic and administrative location; total population under surveillance; staff capacity and strength; community-based and hospital-based surveillance activities; clinical trial capabilities and clinical trial studies conducted. It also contains other health, population and intervention studies conducted by the sites and publications from these studies.
We are very grateful to all the experts, site leaders, site members and individuals who have contributed their knowledge and experience towards the development of this document. This document will serve as a guide to future health and population studies and large scale multi-country surveillance and clinical trial research in Sub-Saharan Africa.

INDEPTH membership is currently composed of 42 member health research centres that observe through 49 HDSS field sites the life events of over three million, eight hundred people in 19 LMICs in Africa, Asia and Oceania. Since its inception in 1998, the Network has gathered a treasure trove of robust data, and is uniquely positioned both to answer the most pressing questions on health, population dynamics and development, and to provide policy-makers and donors with evidence on the impact of interventions. In a world seeking answers to poverty and underdevelopment, INDEPTH produces the data necessary to study and solve our greatest social problems.

INDEPTH membership is currently composed of 42 member health research centres that observe through 49 HDSS field sites the life events of over three million, eight hundred people in 19 LMICs in Africa, Asia and Oceania. Since its inception in 1998, the Network has gathered a treasure trove of robust data, and is uniquely positioned both to answer the most pressing questions on health, population dynamics and development, and to provide policy-makers and donors with evidence on the impact of interventions. 

INDEPTH membership is currently composed of 42 member health research centres that observe through 49 HDSS field sites the life events of over three million, eight hundred people in 19 LMICs in Africa, Asia and Oceania. Since its inception in 1998, the Network has gathered a treasure trove of robust data, and is uniquely positioned both to answer the most pressing questions on health, population dynamics and development, and to provide policy-makers and donors with evidence on the impact of interventions. In a world seeking answers to poverty and underdevelopment, INDEPTH produces the data necessary to study and solve our greatest social problems.

INDEPTH membership is currently composed of 42 member health research centres that observe through 49 HDSS field sites the life events of over three million, eight hundred people in 19 LMICs in Africa, Asia and Oceania. Since its inception in 1998, the Network has gathered a treasure trove of robust data, and is uniquely positioned both to answer the most pressing questions on health, population dynamics and development, and to provide policy-makers and donors with evidence on the impact of interventions. 

Breakdown of key areas of focus

Discover the core areas driving our mission at INDEPTH Network. Our focus includes

health threats monitoring, population changes tracking, and policy intervention measurement.

Our Work

Connect with our Centres, Groups, and Secretariat for valuable resources and collaboration.

Empowering

Advancing Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems

Our global network of HDSSs provides comprehensive health data to inform policy-makers, researchers, and communities.

Network Projects

The Network facilitates multi-centre studies by linking Centres, Working Groups, advisors, and funders, ensuring consistent and high-quality data across all sites.

FIC

The main objective was to measure coverage of fully immunized child (FIC) using existing prospective data routinely collected..

MCTA

KINTAMPO GAHAN – September 18: A man part of the medical team of INDEPTH checks blood samples for malaria 18..

INTREC

The WHO’s Commission on Social Determinants of Health (SDH) argued in 2008 that the dramatic differences in health..

IUHC

The project seeks to use the unique position of the INDEPTH platform of health and demographic surveillance systems..

We Are A Strong Team

Together, we have shown time and time again that we are committed to making a difference in our community and beyond.

Our strength lies not only in our individual skills and talents but also in our ability to work together towards a common goal. Each of us brings something unique to the table, whether it’s passion, expertise, or creativity. It is this diversity that makes us truly formidable.

In the face of challenges, we stand tall, united by our shared mission and unwavering determination. Together, there is no obstacle too great for us to overcome. Our collective efforts have already brought about positive change, and I have no doubt that together, we will continue to achieve even greater things.

Our Amazing Partners

Meet the organizations and institutions that collaborate with us. Their support and expertise are vital in driving our mission forward and achieving impactful results globally.

Member Parent Institutions

International Partners

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about HDSSs and their impact on communities.

HDSS stands for Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems. They are global networks that collect data from whole communities over extended time periods to accurately reflect health and population problems in low- and middle-income countries.

HDSSs work by monitoring new health threats, tracking population changes through fertility rates, death rates, migration, and morbidity. They also measure the effect of policy interventions on communities.

HDSSs are important because they provide information that enables policy-makers to make informed decisions and adapt their programs to changing conditions. They help address health and population challenges in low- and middle-income countries.

To get involved with HDSSs, you can reach out to us through the contact form or email us at [email protected] We welcome collaborations and partnerships.

For more information about HDSSs, you can explore our website, check out our resources section, or attend our upcoming events. Stay updated with the latest news and developments.

We are a global network of health and demographic surveillance systems (HDSSs) that provide a more complete picture of the health status of communities. Since they collect data from whole communities over extended time periods, they more accurately reflect health and population problems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The HDSSs increasingly link population and health facility data to implement the new Comprehensive Health and Epidemiological Surveillance System (CHESS).

 

Who We Are

Providing Data-Driven Solutions to Global Health Challenges

Delivering precise, data-driven insights to address global health challenges, enhancing policy-making, and improving health outcomes for communities worldwide.

Our Vision

To be a trusted source for evidence supporting and evaluating progress towards health and development goals.

Our Mission

To lead a coordinated approach by the world’s health and demographic surveillance systems to provide timely longitudinal evidence across the range of transitioning settings to understand and improve population health and development policy and practice.

Value Proposition

INDEPTH’s on-going longitudinal health and demographic tracking across the Network of independent population-based Centres operating in different systems and cultures enable our scientists and scientific partners to offer a unique vehicle for the study of the impact of policy and practice and the development and validation of effective interventions

ABOUT US

Our Work Promise to Uphold the trust placed

The International Network for the continuous Demographic Evaluation of Population Health in developing countries (INDEPTH Network), was established in 1998 as a public good. Over the two decades the INDEPTH Network has coordinated the activities of its members to strengthen HDSS core capacities, harmonize various methodologies for data production, improved their ability to conduct large multi‐site investigations that answer questions that cannot be addressed with single individual entities and widely shared both data and results that emanates from such activities.

26

YEARS

OF EXPERIENCE
countries
0 +
population
0 +
sites
0 +
projects
0 +

The INDEPTH Network provides a robust large-scale health and demographic surveillance systems across developing countries that is available to address current global health challenges. The current global health threats such as emerging and re-emerging diseases, the quest to find cure for existing communicable and noncommunicable diseases presents INDEPTH as a unique platform to conduct research and undertake intervention studies to find solutions to these challenges in the developing world. 

The Network presents a universal approach to conducting large multi-center research based on its strength in surveillance, updated vital events-registration system, emphasis on mortality monitoring and tracking of migration. The Network’s ability to offer a unique opportunity of innovative data capture mechanism, advance data analytics, and real-time data reporting systems, enhances data accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness in conducting research in the Sub- Saharan Africa region.
The INDEPTH Network remains pivotal in the continuing need for longitudinal health research that responds to urgent health issues in African and globally. Closely linked to this is the unprecedented opportunity to develop low cost, data-accessible, and user-friendly technology for longitudinal observation of populations. Software innovations, communication tools, AI capabilities, and inference tools expand opportunities for collaboration, exchanges, and capacity-building that are best addressed by a scientific network that builds regional links between scientists as well as collaborative links with research institutions in Europe, Asia, and North America.

This document provides the profile of 16 INDEPTH Sites in 10 countries, comprising a population of over 2.9 million people in East, West and Southern Africa. The document captures the following details of each site: institutional profile; geographic and administrative location; total population under surveillance; staff capacity and strength; community-based and hospital-based surveillance activities; clinical trial capabilities and clinical trial studies conducted. It also contains other health, population and intervention studies conducted by the sites and publications from these studies.
We are very grateful to all the experts, site leaders, site members and individuals who have contributed their knowledge and experience towards the development of this document. This document will serve as a guide to future health and population studies and large scale multi-country surveillance and clinical trial research in Sub-Saharan Africa.

INDEPTH membership is currently composed of 42 member health research centres that observe through 49 HDSS field sites the life events of over three million, eight hundred people in 19 LMICs in Africa, Asia and Oceania. Since its inception in 1998, the Network has gathered a treasure trove of robust data, and is uniquely positioned both to answer the most pressing questions on health, population dynamics and development, and to provide policy-makers and donors with evidence on the impact of interventions. In a world seeking answers to poverty and underdevelopment, INDEPTH produces the data necessary to study and solve our greatest social problems.

 

INDEPTH membership is currently composed of 42 member health research centres that observe through 49 HDSS field sites the life events of over three million, eight hundred people in 19 LMICs in Africa, Asia and Oceania. Since its inception in 1998, the Network has gathered a treasure trove of robust data, and is uniquely positioned both to answer the most pressing questions on health, population dynamics and development, and to provide policy-makers and donors with evidence on the impact of interventions. In a world seeking answers to poverty and underdevelopment, INDEPTH produces the data necessary to study and solve our greatest social problems.

Our Work

Connect with our Centres, Groups, and Secretariat for valuable resources and collaboration.

Empowering

Advancing Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems

Our global network of HDSSs provides comprehensive health data to inform policy-makers, researchers, and communities.

Network Projects

The Network facilitates multi-centre studies by linking Centres, Working Groups, advisors, and funders, ensuring consistent and high-quality data across all sites.

FIC

The main objective was to measure coverage of fully immunized child (FIC) using existing prospective data routinely collected..

MCTA

KINTAMPO GAHAN – September 18: A man part of the medical team of INDEPTH checks blood samples for malaria 18..

INTREC

The WHO’s Commission on Social Determinants of Health (SDH) argued in 2008 that the dramatic differences in health..

IUHC

The project seeks to use the unique position of the INDEPTH platform of health and demographic surveillance systems..

We Are A Strong Team

Together, we have shown time and time again that we are committed to making a difference in our community and beyond.

Our strength lies not only in our individual skills and talents but also in our ability to work together towards a common goal. Each of us brings something unique to the table, whether it’s passion, expertise, or creativity. It is this diversity that makes us truly formidable.

In the face of challenges, we stand tall, united by our shared mission and unwavering determination. Together, there is no obstacle too great for us to overcome. Our collective efforts have already brought about positive change, and I have no doubt that together, we will continue to achieve even greater things.

Member Parent Institutions

International Partners

Frequently Asked Questions

HDSS stands for Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems. They are global networks that collect data from whole communities over extended time periods to accurately reflect health and population problems in low- and middle-income countries.

HDSSs work by monitoring new health threats, tracking population changes through fertility rates, death rates, migration, and morbidity. They also measure the effect of policy interventions on communities.

HDSSs are important because they provide information that enables policy-makers to make informed decisions and adapt their programs to changing conditions. They help address health and population challenges in low- and middle-income countries.

To get involved with HDSSs, you can reach out to us through the contact form or email us at [email protected] We welcome collaborations and partnerships.

For more information about HDSSs, you can explore our website, check out our resources section, or attend our upcoming events. Stay updated with the latest news and developments.

Vision & Mission

INDEPTH staff are dedicated professionals with diverse expertise, committed to excellence and innovation. We work collaboratively to drive the organization's mission and vision forward.

Key characteristics of INDEPTH staff include:

  • Expertise: Our team possesses deep knowledge in various domains, including research, data analysis, program management, and policy development. This expertise ensures high-quality work and informed decision-making.

  • Collaboration: Teamwork is at the heart of INDEPTH’s operations. Our staff members collaborate effectively across departments and with external partners to achieve common goals and address complex challenges.

  • Innovation: INDEPTH staff are forward-thinking and constantly seek new ways to improve processes, methodologies, and outcomes. Our innovative approach helps the organization stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.

  • Commitment: Our team is deeply committed to the mission of INDEPTH, demonstrating dedication and passion in their work. This commitment drives the organization’s success and impacts positively on the communities we serve.

INDEPTH staff are dedicated professionals with diverse expertise, committed to excellence and innovation. We work collaboratively to drive the organization's mission and vision forward.

Key characteristics of INDEPTH staff include:

  • Expertise: Our team possesses deep knowledge in various domains, including research, data analysis, program management, and policy development. This expertise ensures high-quality work and informed decision-making.

  • Collaboration: Teamwork is at the heart of INDEPTH’s operations. Our staff members collaborate effectively across departments and with external partners to achieve common goals and address complex challenges.

  • Innovation: INDEPTH staff are forward-thinking and constantly seek new ways to improve processes, methodologies, and outcomes. Our innovative approach helps the organization stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.

  • Commitment: Our team is deeply committed to the mission of INDEPTH, demonstrating dedication and passion in their work. This commitment drives the organization’s success and impacts positively on the communities we serve.

  • Professional Development: INDEPTH values continuous learning and growth. Staff members are encouraged to pursue professional development opportunities, enhancing their skills and staying current with industry trends.

  • Diversity and Inclusion: Our workforce is diverse, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. This diversity enriches our perspectives and fosters an inclusive and respectful workplace.

  • Leadership: INDEPTH staff exhibit strong leadership qualities, whether in managerial roles or as individual contributors. We lead by example, inspiring others and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

  • Professional Development: INDEPTH values continuous learning and growth. Staff members are encouraged to pursue professional development opportunities, enhancing their skills and staying current with industry trends.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Our workforce is diverse, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. This diversity enriches our perspectives and fosters an inclusive and respectful workplace.

  • Leadership: INDEPTH staff exhibit strong leadership qualities, whether in managerial roles or as individual contributors. We lead by example, inspiring others and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Meet our Staff

Passionate, Dedicated, and Inspiring Leaders in INDEPTH Network

Prof. Philip Adongo

Executive Director

Professor Philip Baba Adongo is a Medical Anthropologist with a PhD. in Epidemiology and Population Health. Prior to joining INDEPTH Network….

More About Prof. Philip Adongo

Professor Philip Baba Adongo is a Medical Anthropologist with a PhD. in Epidemiology and Population Health. Prior to joining INDEPTH Network, he was the Head of Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana. He also held an Adjunct Senior Lecturer position in the Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York and a Research Professor position at the College of Global Public Health, New York University. International Health, University of Copenhagen. He was the President of the Association of Schools of Public Health in Africa (ASPHA)  the Vice President of the World Federation of Academics in Global Health (WFAGH) and Founding Member of Global Network for Academic Public Health (GNAPH). His research expand the area of Health System Strengthening, Reproductive Health, Child and Maternal Health, Communicable and Non-Communcable Diseases and Public Health Education. Professor Philip Adongo’s works in health research has contributed to the both National and International Health Policies such as the CHPS (Community Health Planning Services) in Ghana and the Insecticide Bednets Use across Sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, He is the Executive Director of INDEPTH Network, where he coordinates health and demographic surveillance systems to provide timely longitudinal evidence across the range of transitioning settings to understand and improve population health and the development of policy and practice.

Felicia Manu

Administrator

Felicia Manu is the Administrative Manager of INDEPTH Network. She has worked with the Network since 2001….

More About Felicia Manu

Felicia Manu is the Administrative Manager of INDEPTH Network. She has worked with the Network since 2001. Over the period she has managed different portfolios including: Administrative Secretary, Executive Assistant, Grants Manager and presently the Administrator.

During the period as the Grants Manager, INDEPTH grant portfolio expanded as together, funding was raised from the NIH, Gates Foundation, Welcome Trust, SIDA, Hewlett Foundation, Rockefeller Foundatio n, Doris Duke, IDRC and CORED. Felicia holds a Certificate in Management from Henley Management College, UK, BSc Public Administration and Executive Master’s degree (EMBA) all from the University of Ghana, Legon.

Kwabena Owusu-Boateng

IT Consultant

Kwabena has over thirty years’ experience as an Information Systems Professional and Project Manager……

More about Kwabena Owusu-Boateng​

Kwabena has over thirty years’ experience as an Information Systems Professional and Project Manager. He has worked with international and local organisations including public sector bodies, academia, private sector bodies and NGOs. Kwabena holds a Master’s degree and Bachelors degree in information systems and computer science from the University of Bergen, Norway, a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Statistics from the University of Ghana, Legon. He is also a certified Project Manager (PMP) and IT Business Manager Manager (ITBMC).  Kwabena’s expertise includes: Project Management, Data Management, ICT Infrastructure Management, Website Management and Entrepreneurship training. From 2002 – 2010, Kwabena was the Information Systems Manager of the INDEPTH Network. He also managed the INDEPTH Leadership programme, and the iShare project. Kwabena brings to the table a huge wealth of experience.

Sixtus Apaliyah

Finance Manager

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More about Sixtus Apaliyah​

Curabitur tincidunt neque mollis magna dapibus, quis vehicula mauris porta. Ut aliquam viverra felis, at laoreet sem eleifend at. Proin dapibus metus cursus, dapibus orci sed, vulputate urna. Cras eget diam sed arcu condimentum posuere. In tristique arcu sed mattis ullamcorper. Praesent non nibh nunc.

What we do as a Network

Comprehensive Insights: Annual Progress Reports

Our Annual Progress Reports provide a detailed overview of our activities, achievements, and financial status throughout the year. These reports offer insights into our ongoing projects, research findings, and the impact of our work on global health. They are essential for maintaining transparency with our stakeholders and funders.

Comprehensive Insights: Annual Progress Reports

Our Annual Progress Reports provide a detailed overview of our activities, achievements, and financial status throughout the year. These reports offer insights into our ongoing projects, research findings, and the impact of our work on global health. They are essential for maintaining transparency with our stakeholders and funders.

Partners

INDEPTH Network's Commitment to Financial Transparency and Accountability

The INDEPTH Network’s values include transparency and accountability in all our operations with our multiple stakeholders. We recognise the fact that proper handling of our finances (raised largely from development partners/funders) is critical to maintaining international credibility especially as we are based in Africa. Hence we subject our financial statements to rigorous reviews by internationally acclaimed audit companies. We are proud to state that we have never been issued a qualified audit opinion. In the following table, all our audited financial reports can be downloaded. These are published in our annual reports, presented to the General Assembly, and sent to all our funders.

INDEPTH Network's Commitment to Financial Transparency and Accountability

The INDEPTH Network’s values include transparency and accountability in all our operations with our multiple stakeholders. We recognise the fact that proper handling of our finances (raised largely from development partners/funders) is critical to maintaining international credibility especially as we are based in Africa. Hence we subject our financial statements to rigorous reviews by internationally acclaimed audit companies. We are proud to state that we have never been issued a qualified audit opinion. In the following table, all our audited financial reports can be downloaded. These are published in our annual reports, presented to the General Assembly, and sent to all our funders.

Funders

INDEPTH Network's Commitment to Financial Transparency and Accountability

The INDEPTH Network’s values include transparency and accountability in all our operations with our multiple stakeholders. We recognise the fact that proper handling of our finances (raised largely from development partners/funders) is critical to maintaining international credibility especially as we are based in Africa. Hence we subject our financial statements to rigorous reviews by internationally acclaimed audit companies. We are proud to state that we have never been issued a qualified audit opinion. In the following table, all our audited financial reports can be downloaded. These are published in our annual reports, presented to the General Assembly, and sent to all our funders.

INDEPTH Network's Commitment to Financial Transparency and Accountability

The INDEPTH Network’s values include transparency and accountability in all our operations with our multiple stakeholders. We recognise the fact that proper handling of our finances (raised largely from development partners/funders) is critical to maintaining international credibility especially as we are based in Africa. Hence we subject our financial statements to rigorous reviews by internationally acclaimed audit companies. We are proud to state that we have never been issued a qualified audit opinion. In the following table, all our audited financial reports can be downloaded. These are published in our annual reports, presented to the General Assembly, and sent to all our funders.

Gallery

INDEPTH Network Policies and Procedures

INDEPTH has established policies on various issues developed and agreed by the Network. 

Policies that are specific for the Secretariat are first discussed by all staff with the guidance of our legal adviser. These are then presented to the Board for endorsement.

Network-wide policies are discussed and adopted by INDEPTH Leaders at their Annual General Meetings (AGMs). 

The INDEPTH Secretariat Policies include the following: INDEPTH Whistleblowing Policy; INDEPTH Absent Control Policy; INDEPTH Policy on Disciplinary Procedures; INDEPTH Recruitment Policy and Procedures; INDEPTH Policy on Disputes Procedures; INDEPTH Policy on Grievance Procedures; INDEPTH Policy on Harrasment and Bullying; and INDEPTH Policy on Standards of Conduct.

INDEPTH Network Policies and Procedures

INDEPTH has established policies on various issues developed and agreed by the Network. 

Policies that are specific for the Secretariat are first discussed by all staff with the guidance of our legal adviser. These are then presented to the Board for endorsement.

Network-wide policies are discussed and adopted by INDEPTH Leaders at their Annual General Meetings (AGMs). 

The INDEPTH Secretariat Policies include the following: INDEPTH Whistleblowing Policy; INDEPTH Absent Control Policy; INDEPTH Policy on Disciplinary Procedures; INDEPTH Recruitment Policy and Procedures; INDEPTH Policy on Disputes Procedures; INDEPTH Policy on Grievance Procedures; INDEPTH Policy on Harrasment and Bullying; and INDEPTH Policy on Standards of Conduct.

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