Designing Systems That Deliver Lasting Change

HSDF's work is anchored on five interconnected pillars that shape how we understand challenges, design solutions, implement programmes, strengthen systems, and sustain results.

Evidence Generation

Building the knowledge base that drives every decision, adaptation, and system change.

HSDF begins every engagement with evidence. We establish baselines, conduct evaluations, generate new knowledge, and continuously gather insights throughout implementation to ensure programmes are informed by data, context, and learning rather than assumptions.

Key Evidence: 102+ stakeholder interviews 266+ facilities assessed 73 knowledge products generated 20+ research abstracts submitted in 2025

Co-Creation with Stakeholders

Designing solutions from within—with governments, communities, and the private sector.

HSDF works alongside those who will ultimately own and sustain change. Every intervention is designed collaboratively with government institutions, development partners, frontline workers, communities, and private sector stakeholders.

Key Evidence: Labour Care App co-developed with health workers • ANRiN Dashboard co-designed with FMoH • CLOSA tools co-created across three countries

Results at Scale

From facility to national level—measurable outcomes that outlast the project.

HSDF measures success by the systems, institutions, and capabilities that remain after implementation support ends. Our focus is on sustainable impact that continues to deliver value long after projects are completed.

Key Evidence: 5.7M lives reached • 3,000+ healthcare workers trained • 266+ facilities strengthened • 92.5% DHIS2 reporting rate sustained • 74+ projects across 24 countries • 979K women empowered.

Analytical Rigour

In-depth analysis—not just dashboards—to find what others miss.

We combine advanced analytics with implementation expertise to uncover patterns, identify inefficiencies, and support better decision-making. From machine learning and optimisation modelling to climate-health intelligence, HSDF transforms data into actionable insights.

Key Evidence: IDCRs deployed in 11 states • Advanced methods presented at iHEA World Congress • Climate-health intelligence innovations in sub-Saharan Africa

Continuous Improvement

Iterate, validate, correct—never set-and-forget.

Our programmes follow a structured cycle of validation, analysis, review, and corrective action. This approach enables continuous learning, rapid adaptation, and sustained improvements throughout implementation.

Key Evidence: Niger State eDQA scores improved from 81% to 88.7% • Project Aisha achieved a 50% reduction in maternal deaths • Blood safety systems strengthened across five countries