How technology is disrupting Africa’s healthcare systems

Africa is rapidly becoming the hub of technological start-ups that are revolutionizing the healthcare sector on the continent. Anil Soni, CEO of the World Health Organisation Foundation, discussed the remarkable progress and potential of these innovations in an interview with CNBC Africa. With a 3.8% surge in software developers in Africa, there is a growing demand for cutting-edge technology in various sectors, particularly healthcare. Start-ups in Africa have attracted significant investments, fueling advancements in medical care and accessibility. Soni acknowledged that Africa has missed out on some healthcare revolutions in the past, but remains optimistic about the continent's ability to leapfrog to advanced technologies. One striking aspect of healthcare innovation in Africa is the considerable impact it has had on the continent's population. Over the last two decades, Africa has witnessed the delivery of one billion vaccines and the availability of HIV medicines for just $60 annually. However, Soni emphasized the importance of ensuring that these innovations originate within Africa itself, rather than being imported from other regions. He highlighted the continent's capacity for innovation, citing examples like Elara Health in Kenya, M-Pharma in Ghana, and Zipline in Rwanda. These organizations are tailoring their services to meet the specific needs of the African population, while also striving for profitability. The transformative potential of technology in healthcare was a central theme of the conversation, with Soni discussing the possibility of leveraging mobile technology for medical diagnostics. He mentioned the development of technologies that utilize smartphones to detect diseases, such as COVID-19, a groundbreaking innovation that could revolutionize healthcare accessibility. However, Soni noted that significant portions of the African population still lack access to the internet, underscoring the importance of ensuring equitable distribution of these technologies. Investors play a critical role in driving healthcare innovation in Africa, with a focus on seeking disruptive technologies that can yield substantial returns. Soni highlighted the increasing interest among investors in leveraging technology for healthcare advancements, as it offers a promising avenue for financial growth. The establishment of a $200 million fund by the WHO Foundation, in collaboration with OurCrowd, aimed to invest in healthcare start-ups and promote equitable access to medical innovations. Soni emphasized the significance of engaging private investment capital in healthcare initiatives, as traditional funding sources like government aid are limited. By directing resources towards breakthrough health technologies and ensuring a commitment to equitable access, the fund seeks to catalyze transformative changes in the healthcare landscape of Africa. Additionally, efforts are underway to facilitate collaboration between Western investors and African entrepreneurs, allowing for the expansion of healthcare innovations across the continent. Soni urged investors to look beyond conventional pharmaceutical solutions and explore small-scale technologies that can have a profound impact on healthcare delivery. Regarding drug manufacturing, Soni highlighted the potential for partnerships between local manufacturers in Africa and biotech companies in the US and Europe. By leveraging cost-effective manufacturing capabilities in Africa, these partnerships can enhance the competitiveness of biotech firms in global markets while supporting localized production. The convergence of technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships holds immense promise for driving healthcare advancements in Africa and ensuring equitable access to medical solutions. With a concerted focus on leveraging technological innovations, Africa is poised to embark on a transformative journey towards a more sustainable and inclusive healthcare ecosystem.