NAIROBI, Kenya- Africa’s healthcare industry is on the brink of a transformation, but it requires a shift in mindset and strategy.
This was the message delivered by Villgro Africa CEO Wilfred Njagi during the second annual Transforming African Medtech Conference (TAMC), held at the Kempinski Hotel in Nairobi.
Njagi emphasized the significant economic benefits of nurturing a homegrown medical technology sector.
“Africa needs to start owning the healthcare industry,” Njagi declared. “For too long, we have sent patients to India and other medically advanced countries, exporting money and resources in exchange for medical attention. We have the capacity to build and advance our own systems right here.”
He urged African governments to back local innovators who are developing medical devices tailored for the continent’s needs.
“Healthcare should become a net income earner for Kenya’s economy, much like tourism,” Njagi added.
His sentiments were echoed by other industry leaders at the conference, who underscored the importance of shifting from dependency on imports to fostering local production.
Emmanuel Kamuhire, CEO of A-Lite Uganda, highlighted a successful example: “We have developed a device that assists doctors in locating veins for intravenous cannulation when veins are not easily found. This is just one way we can focus on manufacturing medical devices locally, rather than relying on imports.”
The conference brought together 120 delegates from 14 countries, all committed to shaping the future of African healthcare.
The discussions focused on accelerating the growth of medtech development and commercialization.
Dr. Lisa Ochola pointed out the cost benefits of local manufacturing: “Producing medical devices within Africa could significantly reduce the costs associated with importing them, making healthcare more accessible and affordable across the continent.”
This year’s TAMC marked a milestone in the push for a self-sufficient African medtech industry. The event underscored the urgent need for collaboration among African professionals in the sector, with a shared goal of reducing reliance on external markets and increasing the availability of affordable healthcare solutions.
As the three-day conference concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism among the participants.
The dialogue and strategies developed during the event are expected to drive innovation, investment, and collaboration across the continent.
The TAMC 2024 has set a new benchmark for future gatherings, promising to catalyze further advancements in Africa’s medtech industry.
