Arba Minch University (AMU) Research Team wins $100,000 Funding of the Armauer Hansen Research Institute, AHRI, call for Grand Challenges Ethiopia (GCE). The Project is entitled “AI-Based Malaria Incidence Prediction under Current and Future Climate in Southern Ethiopia, AIM-Clim”. The AIM-Clim project brings together experts from diverse research fields including climate science, public health, artificial intelligence, and ecology.
The main objective of the AIM-Clim project is to develop an AI-powered malaria incidence prediction model tailored for southern Ethiopia utilizing high-resolution climate and land use datasets. This model will generate malaria incidence forecasts ranging from short to long-term future time frames. The user-friendly model will be disseminated to stakeholders and partners through web-based platforms to establish early-warning systems for averting malaria outbreaks.
Moreover, the initiative will support six MSc thesis projects focusing on climate change, infectious diseases, and information and communication technology (ICT). By forecasting malaria outbreaks at a local level over varying time scales, the project is set to make a significant scientific contribution in combating malaria and enhancing public health preparedness in the region.
The collaborative effort involved a dedicated team led by Dr. Thomas Torora (Grant and Collaborative Project Management Directorate director), Dr. Fekadu Massebo, Dr. Mohammed Abebe, Behailu Merdekios (Assoc. Prof. and Research & Community Engagement Vice President) and Dr. Mekdes Urge of Arba Minch University along with Dr. Asaminew Teshome of the Ethiopian Meteorology Institute and Mr. Gudissa Assefa of the Federal Ministry of Health.
Dr. Thomas Torora's establishment of climate monitoring stations in the Gamo highlands over the past decade coupled with the development of climate models and utilization of remotely-sensed big data housed in AMU's ICT servers has laid a strong foundation for climate adaptation and mitigation projects. Advanced molecular laboratory at AMU, powered by the support from the the NORAD’s SENUPH I and II projects, enhances the institution's capabilities in infectious diseases research. Additionally, Dr. Mohammed's pioneering work in artificial intelligence is driving the establishment of an AI research center within the university. The grant project will officially be launched in next month.
This collaborative effort highlights AMU's commitment to cutting-edge research and addressing critical public health challenges in the region under the ongoing climate crises. The University expresses its gratitude to all team members and partners for their invaluable contributions towards this exemplary endeavor which is poised to significantly advance climate and health data production and management at AMU for future research initiatives.
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