Butterfly Network, Inc. announced a tripartite collaboration with implementing partner Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and training partner Global Ultrasound Institute (GUSI). As of April 15, 2024, the organizations have initiated Phase Two of Butterfly's 1,000 iQ+ probe deployment and point-of-care ultrasound training program for maternal and fetal health in Sub-Saharan Africa. The program is funded by the $5M grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that was previously announced by Butterfly in March 2022 and is part of the Gates Foundation's efforts to ensure more women receive ultrasounds and benefit from life-saving diagnostic tools.

In Phase One, 500 iQ+ handheld, whole-body probes were successfully distributed across Kenya in fourth quarter of 2022. Phase Two of the program, titled Siyakubona (meaning ?we see you? in Zulu), will distribute the remaining 500 iQ+ devices to healthcare workers across up to six provinces in South Africa.

The device distribution and training efforts began in the first province, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Here, approximately 50 mid-level practitioners have been enrolled in a week-long training program facilitated by GUSI. The course will provide health workers with the skills and confidence to conduct obstetric ultrasound screenings for key indicators, such as baby?s position or presence of multiples, that are fundamental to quality pregnancy care, as well as for identifying high-risk conditions.

The program is also made possible by key logistical partners, including Core Group, a leading distributor of Apple products in Sub-Saharan Africa; JAMF, the standard in Apple Enterprise Management and privacy software; Melon Mobile, digital mobile virtual network operator; and Zebra Medical, the South African distribution partner for Butterfly devices.