Kenya emerges as East Africa healthcare hub as global firms eye regional market

Kenya is emerging as a key gateway to the East African healthcare market, with more than 350 international healthcare companies exploring investment, trade and procurement opportunities at the World Health Expo (WHX) Nairobi.

The three-day expo at KICC has attracted more than 5,500 participants and 200 exhibitors from over 30 countries, including firms dealing in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, laboratory equipment and nutraceuticals.

WHX Nairobi Exhibition Manager Daniel Green said global firms are increasingly looking at Kenya as an entry point into the regional market.

“These companies are really interested in importing or exporting their products to the East African market. We are also exploring investment, sales and procurement opportunities,” Green said.

FedEx Managing Director for Sales, Sub-Saharan Africa, Leon Brewer, said efficient logistics will be critical to expanding healthcare trade and supporting local manufacturers.

“Kenya is a very big part for us to grow Sub-Saharan Africa into the Middle East and the rest of the world,” Brewer said.

The expo is also highlighting the need to strengthen local healthcare manufacturing and technical capacity.

Ministry of Health Director Dr Joe Lenai urged manufacturers to provide adequate maintenance, spare parts and technical support for medical equipment.

“Africa must no longer be an equipment graveyard,” Lenai said.

The growing interest from global firms is positioning Kenya as a potential centre for healthcare manufacturing, distribution, technology and logistics serving the wider East African market.