Kenya eyes bigger share of East Africa’s healthcare trade

Kenya is positioning itself as East Africa's healthcare distribution hub as regional trade corridors strengthen, with the World Health Expo (WHX) expected to bring more than 5,500 healthcare industry players to Nairobi in September.

The three-day event, scheduled for September 16-18 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), is expected to host over 200 exhibitors from more than 30 countries, reflecting growing commercial interest in the region's healthcare market.

Organisers said the exhibition comes as East Africa's healthcare and wellness market is projected to grow from USD 16.8 billion (approx. Ksh.2.2 trillion) in 2025 to USD 23.6 billion (Ksh.3.1 trillion) by 2034, driven by population growth and rising demand for healthcare services.

"WHX in Nairobi is where East Africa's healthcare ecosystem comes together to do business," said Tom Coleman, Portfolio Director - Healthcare at Informa Markets.

"As regional trade corridors strengthen and healthcare supply chains become more connected, Nairobi is increasingly the place where manufacturers, distributors, hospital groups and policymakers can build the partnerships that move products, improve access and shape the next phase of healthcare delivery across the region."

The event, now in its 10th edition and formerly known as Medic East Africa, is held under the patronage of Kenya's Ministry of Health and is expected to record a 22 per cent increase in exhibitors and an 81 per cent expansion in exhibition space compared with last year.

Organisers said the 2025 edition generated an estimated USD 84.19 million (Ksh.10.9 billion) in business, highlighting the growing commercial opportunities in healthcare procurement, medical technology and supply chains.

The exhibition will showcase products and services across eight sectors, including medical devices, diagnostics, laboratory technology, digital health, healthcare infrastructure and hospital equipment, bringing together manufacturers, distributors, hospital buyers and policymakers seeking new business partnerships.

The event comes as Kenya strengthens its role as a gateway for healthcare products into the East African market, supported by its logistics network and regional trade links. Industry players say improving cross-border supply chains and regulatory harmonisation will be key to unlocking further growth in the region's healthcare sector.