Sexual and reproductive health is still a taboo subject in African societies. To help women a little, a doctoral student in medicine decided, with her team, to set up a bespoke solution for women.

"Elles" is a digital solution developed by a group of young Beninese led by Viviane Oké (photo), a Beninese doctor completing her training at the Faculty of Health Sciences in Cotonou. It enables access to sexual and reproductive health information and services via a mobile application. 

First launched in November 2022 –the official launch is slated for March 30, 2024– the Android app currently boasts over 2,000 users across 20+ African countries, primarily in the Central and West African regions. An iOS version is in development.

"We strive to reduce gender disparities in health, promote women's autonomy and fulfillment, engage men as allies in women's health, and bolster research on women's health and well-being," Viviane Oké told We Are Tech Africa.

Currently, the app can be downloaded for free on PlayStore (the iOS version is under development). Once downloaded, users can register on the platform by clicking "I don't have an account" and following the instructions. After registration, they have access to various services such as menstrual cycle tracking, information on contraceptive methods, family planning, sexually transmitted diseases and infections, and notification alerts for breast self-examination to prevent breast cancer.

According to Viviane, paid services will soon be added to the free services. She mentioned among other things the possibility for users to chat with healthcare professionals.

Adoni Conrad Quenum