The Power of Digital Communities - SPIDER Research Sheds Light on Cancer Control Networks in Africa
A recent study by SPIDER researcher Johnblack Kabukye and collaborators from Africa and the United States evaluates a Virtual Community of Practice Africa Cancer Research and Control, ECHO. The study calls for more robust, mixed-methods approaches and calls for funders, program designers, and for researchers to look beyond attendance numbers and immediate satisfaction
As cancer becomes an increasingly urgent health challenge in Africa, innovative approaches are needed—not just in care delivery, but in how professionals learn, collaborate, and solve problems across national and disciplinary boundaries. One promising approach is the use of Virtual Communities of Practice (VCoPs)—digital spaces where health care professionals and patients come together to share knowledge and grow collectively.
However, more scientific evidence is needed on how VCoPs contribute to better healthcare delivery. A recent study by SPIDER researcher Johnblack Kabukye and collaborators from Africa and the United States partly addresses this knowledge gap by evaluating the Africa Cancer Research and Control ECHO as a VCoP.
What Is Africa Cancer ECHO?
Africa Cancer ECHO is a long-running initiative (launched in 2018 by the US National Cancer Institute) that convenes a wide range of stakeholders—clinicians, advocates, researchers, and policymakers—from across the African continent and beyond.
Through monthly virtual sessions, participants engage in peer learning, case-based discussions, and networking to advance cancer control efforts in their respective countries.
Think of it as a virtual think tank and peer learning network rolled into one, built on the successful Project ECHO model developed in the US.
Findings From Our Research: Real-World Impact Beyond The Screen
More than just another webinar series, Africa Cancer ECHO has led to tangible, real-world outcomes:
- Funding mobilization: The Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO), which hosts the Africa Cancer ECHO, was able to mobilize funding from SPIDER’s DANCCE Initiative – Digital Africa Network for Cervical Cancer Elimination, to map digital solutions for cervical cancer across Africa.
- New Initiatives and Policy Influence: Thanks to insights and networking from ECHO, a new community of practice, the Africa Cancer Survivorship Working Group was born. The group has researched cancer survivorship in Africa and provided policy guidance to Nigeria's health ministry, resulting in the addition of a survivorship pillar to its national cancer plan—addressing the long-overlooked needs of cancer survivors.
- Collaborative Research: ECHO participants have co-authored multiple scientific papers, submitted conference abstracts, and launched studies on cancer survivorship and digital health tools.
- Networking and Belonging: Beyond projects, many participants report that being part of this digital community combats professional isolation and burnout—a major issue in under-resourced healthcare settings.
Looking Forward: Rethinking Evaluation in Digital Development
As VCoPs become more common in global health, education, and governance, understanding how to evaluate their long-term value is increasingly crucial. This study advocates for more robust, mixed-methods approaches and calls for funders, program designers, and researchers to look beyond attendance numbers and immediate satisfaction. The study also emphasizes using narrative accounts and participant reflections to understand how individuals derive meaning, build networks, and take concrete action through involvement in VCoPs. This evaluation approach aligns with SPIDER’s commitment to participatory, context-aware, and socially embedded digital research.
Last updated: June 2, 2025
Source: SPIDER