With the official handover of nearly 1,000 smartphones dedicated to the SCANFORM project, Cameroon is accelerating its digital transition and laying the foundations for an interconnected, efficient health system ready for the age of artificial intelligence.
A silent revolution is underway within the national healthcare landscape. On August 7, 2026, the Minister of Public Health presided over the official ceremony for the handover of 955 highly secure smartphones intended for the large-scale deployment of the SCANFORM project. Far more than a simple logistical donation, this event marks the beginning of a profound structural transformation in the management of health data across the entire country.
From a sheet of paper to intelligent data
For decades, the collection of health information remained paper-based, resulting in slow transmission, risks of loss, and margins of error detrimental to the system’s responsiveness. The SCANFORM project breaks with these archaic cumbersome practices by progressively replacing physical
forms with a smart and agile digital solution.
Now, data captured in the field becomes instantly usable. This streamlined information flow significantly reduces transmission times to decision-making centers and substantially improves the quality of health assessments. Ultimately, this wealth of reliable data will serve as the foundation for advanced predictive tools and the gradual integration of artificial intelligence-based applications to assist healthcare professionals in their decision-making.
A strategic vision aligned with the National Plan 2026-2030
This initiative is in line with the National Strategic Plan for Digital Health 2026-2030. As the Minister recalled in his speech, the ultimate goal is to build a national information network that is integrated, interoperable, secure and resolutely focused on the needs of the citizen.
Initially conceived as a targeted tool for combating HIV, the SCANFORM project has now reached a new milestone. The technical infrastructure and human skills developed during this project are intended to benefit the entire public health system. This cross-sectoral approach will strengthen the effectiveness of major national programs and will be a key driver for the effective implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
A rigorous and highly secure national network
The impact of this deployment will be felt across the entire country. All ten regions are involved, covering 175 health districts and 395 healthcare facilities. To operate this technology, more than 1,500 healthcare professionals will receive specialized training. The distribution of the phones was carefully targeted, taking into account the volume of screening activities and the operational constraints of each facility.
From a technical standpoint, the sovereignty and confidentiality of health data, now perceived as a strategic resource, have been placed at the heart of the system. Each device is connected to a national mobile device management platform, guaranteeing the security, traceability, and integrity of the information collected.
A lasting international partnership
The success of this technological shift also depends on the quality of strategic alliances. The project, the result of a historic partnership initiated in 2004 with the ICAP organization and with financial support from the US government, illustrates successful cooperation in skills transfer and institutional capacity building.
By taking this major technological step, Cameroon demonstrates its political will to make digital technologies a lever for innovation to guarantee every citizen faster, more efficient and more equitable healthcare.
