Why govt is seeking innovators for AI health solutions

The government has revealed plans to partner with private health innovators, pushing for the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence to provide real-time health solutions in a sector that is still facing an employee shortage.

The plan is also aimed at filling the gaps in the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Social Health Authority (SHA), which has faced backlash over the missteps in providing adequate funding to the patients.

Speaking at the opening of the three-day WHX Nairobi and WHX Labs 2025 expo, Joel Gondi, representing Public Health PS Mary Muthoni, said the government is focusing on strengthening primary healthcare through preventive approaches where innovation plays a central role.

“I am very excited by the innovative solutions being showcased here from across the globe, products that can bring our dream of UHC to reality, ensuring quality healthcare services reach patients even in areas without specialized experts,” Gondi explained.

He encouraged innovators and the private sector to support the government’s digital health agenda.

“One of President William Ruto’s priorities is the use of digital solutions at the community level to improve service delivery. We are encouraging the use of digital systems for data and reporting, and we invite the private sector to partner with us to make UHC a reality,” he added.

The exhibition

The WHX Nairobi and WHX Labs 2025 bring together more than 200 exhibitors, 65 international speakers, and 8,000 delegates from over 20 countries.

The forum is addressing East Africa’s critical shortage of healthcare workers and exploring new policies, technologies, and partnerships shaping the region’s healthcare future.

Gondi noted that Kenya continues to position itself as the regional hub for healthcare innovation.

“As Kenyans, we are proud to be the hub of innovation in this region. We are the gateway to the East and Central Africa market in terms of medical tourism and technology transfer,” he said.

Among the exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge solutions are:

• Nishimura Medical Instruments Kenya, a Japanese subsidiary authorized to distribute Canon medical systems, featuring advanced CT scanners and ultrasound technology.
• Bioline Fios Cirurgicos Ltda, a Brazilian firm manufacturing surgical threads for various medical applications.
• Farber Pharma, an Indian company dedicated to making medicines accessible and affordable.
• Radiometer, a global medical device company showcasing TriageGO, an AI-powered clinical intelligence tool that helps prioritize emergency patients based on clinical risk, improving efficiency and safety in emergency departments.

The event runs from 22-24  October 2025, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.