Dr. Abiodun Adereni is a Nigerian veterinarian, social entrepreneur and health technology innovator. He is the founder of HelpMum Africa, an organisation using technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve maternal and child healthcare, particularly in underserved communities.
His work focuses on reducing preventable maternal and infant deaths, improving childhood immunisation and expanding access to essential healthcare services across Nigeria.
Early Life and Education
Adereni studied Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. His involvement in community outreach exposed him to the difficulties pregnant women faced in accessing safe childbirth facilities and medical services.
This experience inspired him to establish a healthcare initiative focused on improving maternal and newborn health. He also received entrepreneurship training at Lagos Business School’s Enterprise Development Centre.
Founding of HelpMum Africa
In 2017, Adereni founded HelpMum Africa to address maternal and infant mortality through affordable healthcare solutions and community-based interventions.
The organisation provides clean birth kits, maternal health education, digital vaccination reminders and training for community midwives. Its initiatives aim to improve childbirth hygiene, encourage childhood immunisation and support women in rural communities.
Through these programmes, HelpMum combines technology with practical healthcare services to reach families with limited access to medical facilities.
Artificial Intelligence and Health Technology
One of Adereni’s significant contributions is ADVISER, an AI-driven vaccination intervention tool developed through collaboration involving HelpMum, Google Research and Vanderbilt University.
The technology helps identify barriers to childhood vaccination and supports healthcare providers in selecting appropriate interventions for families. HelpMum has also developed a digital vaccination tracker that helps parents monitor immunisation schedules and receive reminders.
In addition, Adereni has championed Digital Health Cafes, which equip community birth centres with improved facilities, digital tools and access to healthcare information.
These innovations demonstrate his commitment to applying artificial intelligence and digital technology to public health challenges.
Awards and Recognition
Adereni and HelpMum have received recognition for their contributions to healthcare innovation and social entrepreneurship.
Notable achievements include:
Google Impact Challenge recognition in 2018.
Waislitz Global Citizen Award’s 2021 COVID-19 Response Award.
Ashoka Fellowship in 2023.
His work continues to promote collaboration between technology companies, healthcare providers and public institutions to improve healthcare access.
Dr. Abiodun Adereni is contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s health technology sector through maternal healthcare, childhood immunisation and AI-powered innovations. Through HelpMum Africa, he demonstrates how technology and social entrepreneurship can support healthcare delivery and improve the lives of mothers and children.