AKU has invested in the creation of the Data Innovation Office that is focused on supporting research projects employing data intensive methodologies. The DIO deploys all projects on a modern data stack utilizing cloud technologies and open-source algorithms. A key mandate for the DIO office is to leverage data in innovative ways to address population health challenges in East Africa thereby leapfrogging over many traditional Western methodologies.
The Data Innovation team plays a vital role in supporting the data infrastructure needs of the UZIMA-DS project. Operating within a cloud-first, open-source environment, the UZIMA-DS architecture undergoes continuous iteration, incorporating emerging data algorithms, best practices, and standards. Our team's primary responsibility is to ensure that all data required by researchers undergoes processing and cleansing through high-quality data pipelines and is then organized within a data model optimized for analysis. Additionally, we provide essential training and support to researchers on accessing cloud resources and utilizing tools effectively. Furthermore, our team ensures compliance with Kenyan Data Protection laws and serves as the primary contact with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner.
