HEARD, based at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, is an applied research center that brings together interdisciplinary teams to solve complex health problems on the African continent. The Division drives innovation by an epistemology that uses public health, policy analysis and health economics methods to tackle complex issues. HEARD aims to influence and support evidence-based policy and good practice to more effectively address Africa’s health and development challenges and to contribute to achieving health and sustainable development across the continent. It conducts and disseminates innovative trans-disciplinary research to influence public health policy and practice in Africa, with a particular emphasis on engaging decision-makers. The research thematic areas include: disability, health and livelihoods; gender equality and health; health governance and finance; and health systems strengthening.
The publications encompass cutting-edge social and scientific research on HIV/AIDS, a range of related health, human rights and development concerns in east and southern Africa, including the health and rights of women, people with disabilities, LGBTI and other key and marginalized groups. Additional publications are available in the areas of health systems strengthening, health governance and financing, and sexual and reproductive health and rights.
