"Safe pregnancies for all women"

AI-enabled ultrasound expands access to prenatal care in Zambia through early detection and timely interventions.

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (2-10-2025) - The government has announced the rollout of the PIKABU project – Piloting Integration, Knowledge, and Acceptability of Baby Ultrasounds – which introduces portable, AI-assisted ultrasound technology to strengthen maternal healthcare across the country.

Delivering a speech on behalf of Health Minister Elijah Muchima at a progress update meeting in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi said the initiative is addressing shortages of equipment and trained staff that have long limited ultrasound services.

"The PIKABU project enables accurate diagnoses, faster clinical decisions, and access even in remote areas," Dr. Lishimpi said. 

"By expanding these services, we are laying the foundation for healthier pregnancies and safer deliveries."

He noted that while government facilities are mandated to provide free obstetric ultrasound, coverage has remained limited.

 The new technology is expected to close this gap and reduce maternal and infant mortality, in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommending at least one scan before 24 weeks of gestation.

Launched in September 2023, PIKABU has already established six sites in Chongwe, Kafue, and Lusaka, where facilities have been renovated, equipped, and staffed. So far, 90 healthcare workers have been trained, some of whom are now certified as peer trainers under a model being evaluated for long-term sustainability.

Dr. Lishimpi also revealed that discussions are underway to integrate AI-assisted ultrasound into midwifery curricula to build lasting capacity. 

On data management, he confirmed the project complies with national regulations, with a secure local server in place to safeguard patient information.

On behalf of Minister Muchima, Dr. Lishimpi commended UNC Global Projects Zambia, UNC at Chapel Hill, the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, and health workers for their contributions.

"As a government, we are committed to improving women’s health through innovation, partnership, and evidence-based practice," he said. 

"Your efforts are strengthening our health system and providing hope for safe motherhood and a healthier generation."

Dr. Margaret Phiri Kasaro, Country Director of UNC Global Project Zambia, explained that the program, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and supported by the Helmsley Charitable Trust, aims to expand maternal and fetal healthcare access nationwide.

According to Dr. Kasaro, Zambians stand to benefit from the project through early detection of pregnancy complications, precise pregnancy dating, and timely referral to higher-level care facilities.

"Empowering midwives and healthcare providers—even in rural and underserved areas—to conduct AI-assisted ultrasounds will enhance maternal and newborn health outcomes while reassuring expectant mothers that their babies are developing well," she said.

Access to obstetric ultrasound has long been limited in Zambia, particularly in remote areas, due to a shortage of trained sonographers. The PIKABU project addresses this challenge by providing affordable, portable devices that can be operated by health workers with minimal training.

Dr. Kasaro stressed that the AI component of the program allows for accurate assessment of fetal growth, early identification of potential complications, and improved clinical decision-making.

"Our goal is to increase access to ultrasound services for women before 24 weeks of pregnancy, enabling accurate pregnancy dating and better management," she said.

She further emphasized that the project relies on strong partnerships with local communities, healthcare providers, and international collaborators to ensure the technology is well integrated into Zambia’s health system.

"The AI algorithm supporting the program has been trained using images from over 10,000 women and validated in peer-reviewed studies, producing results comparable to expert sonographers," she noted.

"Since September 2023, the project has been piloted in Chongwe and other locations, integrating AI-assisted ultrasound into routine antenatal care," Dr. Kasaro added.

Highlighting the importance of community engagement, she said, "Although technology may be unfamiliar, involving patients and local leaders builds trust and understanding. This helps communities recognize the value of early antenatal care and AI-assisted ultrasound."

She added, "When communities are informed and involved, the adoption of new health technologies becomes more effective."

Dr. Kasaro concluded: "This is not an automated process that replaces healthcare providers. It is a tool that supports them, improves access, and contributes to safer pregnancies across Zambia."