By Shadrack Nyakoe
Leaders, policymakers, and healthcare innovators from across Africa have convened in Nairobi for a two-day dialogue to explore how emerging technologies could reshape healthcare delivery across the continent.
The event aims to address Africa’s growing healthcare challenges by leveraging advances in technology, such as artificial intelligence, genomics, telemedicine, and blockchain, to create more resilient and inclusive healthcare systems.
With notable progress already made in integrating technology into African healthcare, the dialogue focuses on overcoming existing barriers—such as infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, data privacy, and security—hindering wider adoption.
Key emerging technologies, including AI, Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), drones, and genetic-based vector control, are expected to play transformative roles in diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing resources, and improving public health outcomes.
A major theme of the discussions is the need to align technological innovations with African healthcare priorities to promote sustainable, equitable growth.
The African Union (AU) has long recognized the importance of technology in driving socioeconomic progress and, through the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) and the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), is working to advance policies that enable the integration of these innovations into healthcare.
Strategic partnerships and policy advocacy are also high on the agenda, with AUDA-NEPAD and AFIDEP working to support evidence-based policy reforms that foster health research, improve access to technology, and ensure quality healthcare services across the continent.
In a show of support for the continent’s digital transformation, mobile operators like Kenya’s Safaricom and Nigeria’s MTN have begun offering micro-insurance products and other mobile-based health payment options.
These initiatives are helping bridge access to healthcare for millions of Africans, especially in remote areas where healthcare infrastructure is limited.
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The dialogue also highlights the efforts of the AU’s High-Level Panel on Emerging Technologies (APET), a group of experts appointed in 2016 to provide guidance on harnessing technology for Africa’s growth.
The panel has focused on creating a unified approach to technology integration, from advising on ethical and regulatory standards to promoting national and regional technology strategies.
As the conference unfolds, stakeholders emphasize that a collaborative approach between governments, private sector, and civil society will be key to making the transformative potential of these technologies a reality for African healthcare systems.