African MedTech leaders push for locally made medical devices to boost healthcare

The three-day event serves as a premier platform for stakeholders to converge, collaborate, and refine strategies aimed at leveraging medical technology for meaningful progress in healthcare. 

Wilfred Njagi, Co-Founder and CEO of Villgro Africa who are the organizers of the event, underscored the importance of supporting locally manufactured medical devices, highlighting the significant economic benefits this could bring.

"Africa needs to start owning the healthcare industry," Njagi asserted. "For too long, we have sent patients to India and other medically advanced countries, exporting money and resources in exchange for medical attention, despite our capacity to build and advance our own systems. The government should support Kenyan innovators who are capable of developing devices locally for the Kenyan people. Healthcare should become a net income earner for Kenya's economy, much like tourism."

Industry stakeholders at the conference addressed both the challenges and opportunities in advancing MedTech in Africa, emphasizing the critical need for local solutions through locally manufactured devices. 

Emmanuel Kamuhire, a biomedical engineer, Founder and CEO of A-Lite Uganda, pointed out that Africans are increasingly recognizing the challenges facing the medical industry and are keen on developing devices tailored to local needs. 

"We have developed a device that assists doctors in locating veins for intravenous cannulation in cases where veins are not easily found. This innovation is just one example of how we can focus on manufacturing medical devices locally, rather than relying on imports," Kamuhire explained.

Dr. Lisa Ochola further emphasized that manufacturing devices within Africa could significantly lower costs associated with importing them from abroad, making healthcare more accessible and affordable across the continent.

The TAMC 2024 dialogue among stakeholders is set to shape the future of African healthcare, driving innovation, investment, and collaboration that will ultimately improve healthcare outcomes for millions.