THE INITIATIVE
AI for Schistosomiasis
Risk Prediction
NALA is developing an AI-powered risk prediction tool to help identify areas at higher risk for schistosomiasis transmission. The project combines field data, environmental information, climate indicators, GIS layers, and machine learning to support more targeted planning, prioritization, and disease prevention.
WHY IT MATTERS
One of the most persistent
neglected tropical diseases
Schistosomiasis is one of the major neglected tropical diseases and remains persistently difficult to control, especially in communities with limited access to safe water and sanitation. Current intervention planning often relies on fragmented or incomplete data. By using AI and geospatial analysis, NALA aims to help decision-makers better understand where transmission risk is highest and where interventions can have the greatest impact.
WHAT THE PROJECT DOES
The Data Stack
- GIS & Satellite Data
Satellite-based geographic information for terrain, water body mapping, and land use analysis.
- Environmental & Climate Data
Temperature, rainfall, humidity, and seasonal patterns that influence transmission dynamics.
- Field-Based Snail Mapping
On-the-ground surveys identifying freshwater snail habitats and intermediate host populations..
- Machine Learning Models
Predictive algorithms that synthesize multi-layered data into actionable risk assessments.
- Visualization Dashboard
Interactive interface for exploring risk maps, prioritizing regions, and tracking indicators.
- End-User Validation
Iterative testing with public health stakeholders to ensure real-world relevance and usability.
SYSTEM CAPABILITIES
What the platform enables
- Identify potential transmission hotspots
- Prioritize areas for field validation and intervention
- Support Ministry of Health and partner planning
- Improve targeting of limited public health resources
- Generate evidence for more proactive NTD control
SYSTEM CAPABILITIES
What the platform enables
- Identify potential transmission hotspots
- Prioritize areas for field validation and intervention
- Support Ministry of Health and partner planning
- Improve targeting of limited public health resources
- Generate evidence for more proactive NTD control
THE NALA DIFFERENCE
Built from the field,
not in isolation
This project builds on NALA’s field experience in schistosomiasis prevention, community engagement, snail mapping, WASH, and health system collaboration. Rather than developing technology in isolation, the tool is being designed around real public health needs and validated with the communities.
Snail Mapping
Community WASH
Health Systems
Field Validation
COLLABORATION
Our Partners
GET INVOLVED
Let's predict the future of
disease control
— together
NALA is looking to collaborate with partners interested in AI for public health, disease prevention, geospatial intelligence, and neglected tropical diseases.
GET INVOLVED
Let's predict the future of
disease
control
— together
NALA is looking to collaborate with partners interested in AI for public health, disease prevention, geospatial intelligence, and neglected tropical diseases.