Dnet- Maternal and Infant Health

The M4H (Maternal and Infant Health) project, implemented by System Solutions & Development Technologies Limited (SSD-TECH) in partnership with D. Net, aims to deliver essential maternal and infant health information to users in Bangladesh through SMS and Interactive Voice Response (IVR) services. The initiative is designed to provide 500,000 subscribers across six telecom operators with vital health reminders, IVR recordings, automated calls, and ongoing support registration. The project has three proposed solution architectures: a centralized IVR system, a distributed system, and a rented IVR platform. These options are tailored to accommodate different cost and redundancy requirements. The centralized system consolidates the IVR platform for all telecom operators, offering a cost-effective and reliable solution.

In contrast, the distributed system features separate platforms for each telecom operator, providing higher redundancy at an increased cost. The rented distributed system utilizes SSD-TECH’s existing platform for a rental fee, allowing for a more affordable solution that shares resources. The project is being implemented in two phases: the first phase focuses on prototype development, while the second phase will involve a full-scale rollout. SSD-TECH is dedicated to providing 24/7 support and managing the system through an open-source, scalable approach. A dedicated project and support team will oversee ongoing maintenance to ensure continuous service. To date, the project has successfully reached its goal of 500,000 subscribers. Each subscriber is anticipated to receive approximately 10 calls per month, with an average call duration of 1 minute. During peak hours, the service handles 10 calls per operator.

To support this activity, a total of 10 E-1 communication links are required for smooth connectivity. On average, the system processes 16,667 minutes of usage per hour, ensuring efficient and consistent delivery of maternal and infant health information to the target population.

ABT Associates – Hygiene and COVID-19 eAwareness

In 2021, Boomcast, in collaboration with ABT Associates, implemented a six-month voice messaging campaign to promote hygiene and COVID-19 awareness in underserved rural communities of northern and western Bangladesh. The campaign delivered weekly voice calls in Bangla and local dialects to 13,000 mobile users, with each message lasting 40 to 60 seconds and focused on handwashing, safe water handling, and COVID-19 symptom awareness and myth-busting.

Messages were strategically scheduled for Friday and Saturday mornings and evenings, based on behavioral insights identifying them as peak listening periods in rural households. Boomcast’s automated, cloud-based voice broadcasting system ensured wide and consistent outreach. Real-time analytics tracked delivery rates, pickup and listen-through percentages, and optimal engagement times. Field feedback indicated improved hygiene practices, especially among children and elderly, and strong support from community and religious leaders, demonstrating the effectiveness of voice-based communication in public health awareness among digitally marginalized populations.

Dnet – Digital Health Service

Aponjon is a mobile health service in Bangladesh that started in 2011. It provides important health information to pregnant women, new mothers, and families using mobile technology. Aponjon aims to fill the information gap in both urban and rural areas by offering customized weekly updates that match pregnancy stages and child development. Aponjon stands out because it takes an inclusive approach. It understands that literacy and access to information vary between urban and rural communities, so it adapts its content. Whether a mother lives in Dhaka or a remote village, Aponjon sends timely and relevant health messages through SMS and voice messages in Bangla. The messages cover topics like prenatal and postnatal care, child nutrition, and safe delivery. SSD-TECH, a leading mobile technology company in Bangladesh, is a key partner for Aponjon. SSD-TECH supports the backend infrastructure, ensuring that health messages are delivered reliably, even in hard-to-reach areas.

Their technical support helps Aponjon operate effectively and deliver messages in real time. Aponjon has made a significant impact, reaching over 2.2 million subscribers. It has helped raise awareness about maternal and child health in Bangladesh. By using mobile technology, Aponjon empowers families with knowledge that leads to healthier pregnancies, safer childbirth, and better early childhood care. In a country where many struggle to access healthcare information, Aponjon is a sign of innovation and inclusivity.

It shows how well-applied technology can tackle public health challenges and support sustainable development goals. As Bangladesh invests in digital health solutions, Aponjon serves as a model for how mobile services can change lives—one message at a time.