Shadrack Nyakoe
Nairobi, Kenya | August 2025 – Kenya is positioning itself as a regional hub for healthcare innovation, spearheading East Africa’s shift toward digital, community-driven healthcare through the Digital Health Triangle—the convergence of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), strong primary healthcare systems, and rapid health technology (healthtech) adoption.
At a high-level WHX networking event in Nairobi, supported by the Ministry of Health, government leaders, health NGOs, and private sector players underscored the urgency of collaboration to build equitable and sustainable health systems.
“With overseas development funding on the decline, it’s time for the private sector to step in—not just as investors, but as innovation partners. The future of universal healthcare depends on how well we collaborate across sectors, especially in the face of challenges like climate change,” said Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Health.
Kenya’s leadership in this space is no accident. Policy reforms, pilot programmes, and a vibrant start-up ecosystem are enabling technology-driven healthcare that extends beyond urban hospitals into rural clinics, homes, and mobile devices. From AI-assisted diagnostics to mobile patient records, digital tools are turning fragmented services into connected care networks.
Amref Health Africa, which reaches more than 30 million people, reaffirmed its partnership with WHX. Corazon Aquino, Acting Global Director for Partnerships, said:
“Our collaboration with WHX has allowed us to co-develop inclusive digital solutions for underserved communities. We are committed to continuing this journey to strengthen health systems across the continent.”
Daniel Green, Exhibition Manager, WHX Africa, described WHX Nairobi as a “world-class platform for healthcare growth, partnerships, and investment” in Africa’s innovation ecosystem.
Tom Coleman, Portfolio Director, Informa Markets, summed it up:
“Transforming healthcare in Africa comes down to three things: strong primary care, universal access, and digital innovation that connects it all. The Digital Health Triangle aligns these goals and makes them scalable and sustainable.”
If Kenya is the proof of concept, the Digital Health Triangle is the blueprint—offering a path to a more inclusive, tech-enabled, and resilient healthcare future for East Africa.
