NAIROBI, Kenya- Google for Startups has just announced the 24 innovative startups selected for the 2024 cohort of its Growth Academy: AI for Health program.
This initiative supports high-potential startups across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) that leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize healthcare and medical research.
Pioneering Health Solutions from Africa
Among the trailblazers are Kenya’s Thalia Psychotherapy and TibuHealth, Nigeria’s Healthtracka, and South Africa’s Zoie Health.
These startups utilize AI’s potential in addressing healthcare challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa, from integrating mental health services to delivering accessible outpatient care and affordable healthcare.
According to the World Health Organization, over 116 million people across Africa were estimated to be living with mental health conditions before the pandemic, and currently, there are fewer than two mental health workers for every 100,000 people.
Kenya’s Thalia Psychotherapy aims to bridge this gap with its AI-powered chatbot that provides initial assessments and therapy sessions, increasing access to mental health support.
Intensive Training and Expert Mentorship
“We are committed to supporting the growth of innovative startups, particularly those leveraging AI to address critical healthcare challenges,” Dorothy Ooko, Head of Communications and Public Affairs at Google Africa said.
Over the next three months, the selected startups will benefit from intensive training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Participants will engage in workshops on best practices for AI, leadership development, responsible innovation, product design, and customer acquisition.
Additionally, they will receive one-on-one mentorship and technical support from Google experts in various domains, including Research, Health, Verily, Fitbit, and DeepMind.
Google for Startups continues to pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in healthcare, helping to shape a healthier future through AI.
