East Africa’s future health systems will be digital, decentralised, and built through collaboration, according to stakeholders from government, health NGOs, and the private sector.
This was the message during a high-level networking event hosted in Nairobi by WHX. The event brought together key public and private stakeholders for a focused conversation on the future of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in East Africa and the importance of the Digital Health Triangle.
At the same time, the event took place as Kenya positions itself as a regional hub for healthcare innovation.
“With overseas development funding on the decline, it’s time for the private sector to step in as both investors and 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, Kenya’s Ministry of Health.
It was noted that East Africa stands at the intersection of three powerful healthcare forces: the push for UHC, the strengthening of primary healthcare systems, and the rapid rise of healthcare technology (healthtech). This convergence – the Digital Health Triangle – is changing how the region approaches equity and sustainability in healthcare.
PS Muthoni stated, “it is essential to accelerate digitisation in primary healthcare as the private sector has both the agility and creativity needed to drive practical, technology-based decisions forward. “We’re looking to the private sector to support digital transformation at the community level.”
In addition, she pledged the Ministry’s support for WHX and similar initiatives.
“As both a public official and a passionate advocate for accessible health services, I welcome partnerships that align with our goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage. Government cannot do it alone; we need every hand on deck.”
Driving change
Amref Health Africa is among the companies that are driving this high level of change. Amref serves more than 30 million people and is a critical player in digital healthcare.
“Our journey with WHX began in Kigali in 2023, and for the past three years, we’ve built a partnership rooted in shared values around innovation and community-driven care,” said Corazon Aquino, Acting Global Director for Partnerships and External Engagement, Amref Health Africa.
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During the event, Aquino emphasised the importance of collaboration in driving lasting health impact.
“Our partnership with WHX has allowed us to engage deeply on themes like innovation in primary healthcare and inclusive digital solutions for underserved populations.”
She also reaffirmed Amref’s long-term commitment to the collaboration. “We’re excited to keep this partnership going and to continue these vital conversations, and are looking forward to joining WHX again at the upcoming event in October, as we work together to strengthen health systems across the continent.”
Equitable health future
According to Daniel C, Exhibition Manager, WHX Africa Portfolio, Informa Markets, it is essential to create opportunities for thought leaders and change makers to come together and plan for an equitable health future.
“WHX Nairobi and WHX Nairobi Labs offer exhibitors and attendees unique, high-value opportunities to unlock healthcare growth and partnerships across Africa,” he said.
Green added, “Our Kenyan event delivers the kind of global exposure, connections, and deals you’d expect from a world-class healthcare and medical laboratory exhibition.
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“Supported by the Ministry of Health, Kenya, WHX continues to lead as a premier healthcare and lab event for Kenya and East Africa,” he added. “We’re proud to bring together stakeholders to advance health innovation and infrastructure across the region.”
If Kenya is the proof point, then the Digital Health Triangle is the playbook. What’s needed next is scale: more partners, more integration, and more urgency.
“When we talk about transforming healthcare in Africa, it really comes down to three things: strong primary care systems, universal access without financial hardship, and digital innovation that connects it all. Each one supports the others. Without that balance, we won’t get the scale or sustainability we need,” said Tom Coleman, Portfolio Director for Informa Markets.
The Digital Health Triangle offers a powerful lens through which to build that design: aligning the ambition of Universal Health Coverage with the foundational role of primary healthcare, and supercharging both through targeted digital innovation.
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