IPA Random Update | April 2024
Innovations for Poverty Action
We discover and promote effective solutions to global poverty problems.
How Can We Achieve a Malaria-Free World?
By By Shana Warren and Katherine Theiss-Nyland
Malaria is a preventable and treatable disease, and there are more evidence-based tools to treat and prevent malaria than ever before. To promote the integration of malaria vaccines among routine childhood immunization, IPA, in collaboration with Dr. Anne Karing (University of Chicago) and Dr. Mattie Toma (University of Warwick), is partnering on a study with the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health. Together, we aim to scale up a simple, low-cost innovation to increase immunization demand: a colored bracelet that signals a child’s immunization status. In this blog, we highlight interventions and innovations that are driving progress towards the control and elimination of malaria. Read the full blog post.
Blog from IPA Leadership
Bridging the Research Divide and Increasing Diversification in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
By Funmilayo Ayeni, Emeka Eluemunor, and Olayinka David-West
Since 2021, IPA is actively advancing initiatives to bridge the research divide and broaden its research network in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The barriers for LMIC researchers are complex, but we are convinced that locally grounded research leads to more policy-relevant and impactful studies. We have made meaningful progress in addressing these inequalities and are continuing to learn how to better support LMIC researchers. Read the full blog post.
Policy Insight
The Impact of Growth Charts and SQ-LNS in Zambia
Researchers: Günther Fink, Doug Parkerson, Peter Rockers, and Dorothy Sikazwe
In Zambia, stunting, or being too short for one’s age, impacts 35 percent of children under the age of five. IPA is working with the Ministry of Health to use evidence to address this pressing problem. Recent studies have shown Small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS)—ready-to-eat food-based supplements that provide energy, protein, fats, and micronutrients—can significantly improve child growth, nutrition, and development outcomes. These studies suggest SQ-LNS holds significant promise for making an impact at scale, which is why it is one of IPA’s Best Bets. IPA is currently working with the Ministry of Health to implement, test, and explore a path to scale for SQ-LNS in Zambia. Read the full summary.
Research Highlights
An Innovative Approach in Ghana to Increase On-time Infant Vaccination
Researchers: Salifu Amadu, Günther Fink, Gillian Levine, and Issah Mohammed
Early vaccination can safeguard infants from life-threatening illnesses, but in many countries infants are vaccinated late, leaving them vulnerable to these illnesses and exposing them to serious health risks. To encourage on-time vaccination in northern Ghana, researchers measured the impact of mobile phone reminders and financial incentives for caregivers and community health workers. Reminders increased on-time infant vaccinations by 10.5 percentage points while incentives led to a substantial 49.5 percentage point increase. This innovative approach holds promise for improving vaccination coverage in settings where existing health information may be limited. Read the full summary.
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Events
Innovating to Include: Expanding Financial Inclusion Through Agent Network Development
May 3 | Webinar | Register.
Best Bets: Emerging Opportunities for Impact at Scale
May 24 | Webinar | Register.
IPA in the News
Employment Opportunities
Oversee IPA’s operations in Burkina Faso, C?te d’Ivoire, and Mali
Develop and execute a new strategy to expand the conversation on evidence use and promote impact & engagement