Digitization A Game Changer in Humanitarian Services and Research: Lessons from the Jengu Handwashing Study in Daadab

Abstract

Crisis-affected populations in refugee settlements face elevated risks of preventable diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and respiratory infections, making hygiene promotion a critical public health priority. This paper documents lessons from the integration of digital tools into the Jengu Handwashing Study conducted in the Dadaab Refugee Camp in northeastern Kenya. The Jengu handwashing facility was co-created through a partnership involving APHRC, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, the British Red Cross, and the engineering firm Arup, using an iterative, human-centered design process that incorporated direct community input. Digitization of data collection enabled real-time monitoring, reduced transcription errors, and improved coordination across dispersed field sites. Key lessons highlight the importance of staff digital literacy, adapting tools to low-bandwidth environments, and protecting data privacy for vulnerable populations. The paper provides actionable recommendations for researchers and humanitarian organizations seeking to leverage digital technologies to improve research quality and service delivery in emergency settings across sub-Saharan Africa.