Safaricom has unveiled a transformative Sh104.8 billion investment in Kenya’s healthcare sector, aiming to leverage technology to enhance the nation’s health system. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Health’s vision for universal quality healthcare and will unfold over ten years to develop an integrated Healthcare Information Technology System (IHTS). The move underscores Safaricom’s commitment to societal transformation through innovative solutions.
The consortium behind this initiative includes Apeiro Limited and Konvergenz Network Solutions Limited, which will deploy the IHTS without imposing any upfront costs on the government. Instead, the Ministry of Health will recover the investment through monthly payments starting in February 2025, contingent on achieving key project milestones. This approach allows for sustainable funding while ensuring accountability in implementation.
A central feature of the IHTS will be the Health Information Exchange (HIE), designed to unify patient records and enhance interoperability among healthcare facilities. This is a critical step towards improving patient care and streamlining processes within the healthcare system. The initiative will also digitize public health facilities through an Integrated Hospital Management Information System (IHMIS), collaborating closely with county governments.
In addition, the project will modernize the supply chain for health products, allowing for better tracking of pharmaceuticals and minimizing stockouts. The introduction of digital health insurance solutions aims to enhance efficiency and transparency in healthcare financing, ultimately benefiting patients and providers alike.
Safaricom’s CEO, Peter Ndegwa, emphasized the role of technology as a tool for empowerment and transformation. This initiative reflects the company’s commitment to advancing its purpose-led technology vision while building a robust digital health infrastructure. The plan includes establishing a Kenyan-hosted health cloud, specialized devices for healthcare professionals, and reliable power sources to support technology in healthcare settings.
This new investment builds on Safaricom’s previous successes in digitizing essential services, such as the Hustler Fund and the Inua Jamii program. The company’s dedication to using technology for societal impact is evident in this ambitious healthcare initiative, which promises to reshape the future of health services in Kenya.
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