In the News

The African AI healthtech firms saving lives and attracting investors

African startups are harnessing AI to boost healthcare, targeting regions with critical staff shortages. Envisionit’s RADIFY, founded by Jaishree Naidoo and team, uses convolutional neural networks on chest X‑rays to rapidly diagnose conditions like TB and COVID‑19. When clinicians challenge a diagnosis, the case feeds into RATIFY, a regulatory-grade monitoring system that incorporates feedback into future model updates.

Despite obstacles—like unreliable power, limited data, and few healthcare professionals—Kenya, Uganda and South Africa are piloting AI screening tools. Funding is flowing: Envisionit raised $1.65 M, while other firms, including Ilara Health and Ubenwa, have attracted millions. Investors view scalable, regulatory-compliant AI healthtech as vital in Africa.

Published June 12, 2025

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