SMS for Life in Burundi and Zimbabwe: A Comparative Evaluation

Several benefits of mobile health (mHealth) technologies have been documented in the literature. However, available literature is not as “extensive” as those in developed countries, particularly on implementation issues and challenges of mHealth interventions. This is worrying, as addressing the usefulness and appropriateness of a mHealth program before implementation is essential. This paper comparatively assessed the ease and appropriateness of implementing a Short Messaging Service (SMS)-based mHealth technology in developing countries of similar settings. The framework of Marshall, Lewis and Whittaker, based on the Bridges’ criteria, was chosen for the comparison. It was found that Burundi has many challenges that need to be addressed first before implementing a mHealth intervention. Zimbabwe enjoys a better funding model with more ‘experience’ in eHealth projects and initiatives, and a successful mHealth intervention is more plausible. This paper highlights the importance of critically assessing the mHealth intervention and the target community before implementation.