Connect with us
Innopower banner Ad

CEO Insights

Lindelwe Lesley Ndlovu, African Risk Capacity (ARC) CEO Shares Goals, Disaster Risk Solutions, COVID-19 and Future

Published

on

Lindelwe Lesley Ndlovu is an executive with extensive international experience in insurance and investment management. He is currently the CEO of the African Risk Capacity “ARC” Ltd. ARC Ltd is a specialist insurance company that provides parametric insurance coverage to African countries against extreme weather events and natural disasters. In this interview with Alaba Ayinuola, Lesley shares his goals, disaster risk solutions, COVID-19 and the future. Excerpt.

Alaba: Could you briefly tell us about ARC Ltd and the gap its filling in Africa?

Lesley: ARC is a specialist insurance company that was established by the African Union to help African governments improve their capacities to better plan, prepare, and respond to extreme weather events and natural disasters, and adapt to climate change. ARC works through collaboration and innovative finance, to enable countries to strengthen their disaster risk management systems and access rapid and predictable financing when disaster strikes to protect the food security and livelihoods of their vulnerable populations.

From 2014 to 2019, ARC cumulatively provided drought insurance coverage worth US$590 million to insure 59 million vulnerable people in Member States and paid out US$61 million in insurance claims.

Alaba: As its new Chief Executive, what are your set milestone in terms of growth and impact?

Lesley: Our target is to achieve US$100 million in gross written premiums in the next 5 years, providing gross insurance coverage of US$1 billion. This level of scale will allow us to reach 150 million people in Africa and more effectively use insurance to protect people against food insecurity brought about by natural disasters such as droughts and floods, the frequency and severity of natural disasters is increasing as a result of climate change.

Alaba: Establishing a risk pooling insurer is clearly a difficult task. What can other Regions learn from the ARC concept?

Lesley: The idea of sovereign risk pooling is catching on globally, the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility was the first pool set up in 2007 after the devastating hurricanes suffered by the Caribbean countries. ARC Ltd was set up in 2014, subsequently other risk pools have been set up for the Pacific Island nations, the Pacific Catastrophe Risk Assessment and Financing Initiative and SEADRIF in South East Asia.

The success of the risk pools depends a great deal on political support by the member countries and a clearly demonstrable value for all the pool members.

Alaba: What are the benefits of your products for vulnerable member sovereign?

Lesley: The main benefit of working with ARC Ltd, is that we are owned by the African countries and therefore exist to cater to their unique needs. We are able to build customized insurance solutions for each country. Our parametric insurance product pays claims very quickly, typically within 10 days of the insured event, giving governments timely funding to start the relief and recovery efforts. Furthermore, ARC Ltd has an Agency arm which provides capacity building for countries to help them understand the risks that they face and development mitigation strategies.

Alaba: Could you discuss more on The Extreme Climate Facility (XCF) initiative?

Lesley: The XCF is an exciting and very innovative concept. The main objective of the Extreme Climate Facility (XCF) is to reduce vulnerability to extreme events by providing enabling conditions for increased adaptation investment and improved risk transfer. The XCF structure combines a green bond and a catastrophe bond, issued centrally on behalf of member states can address critical barriers to adaptation investment and increase post-disaster funding.

Alaba: How is the current global pandemic affecting ARC? Are you Post COVID-19 prepared?

Lesley: Financially, the COVID induced volatility in the financial markets reduced the market value of our investment portfolio. However, our investment portfolio is made up of high quality, investment grade bonds which we fully expect will pay at par, the default risk remains extremely low.

From a business perspective, our sovereign clients had to respond to COVID 19 and this put a tremendous strain on their finances and in some instances, negatively impacted their ability to pay insurance premiums. Furthermore, due to the lockdown restrictions it was challenging to sustain ongoing interactions with the governments. However, the ability to work remotely has improved over time and the lockdown restrictions are slowly being eased.

All the teams within ARC Ltd have been able to adapt to working remotely and there has been minimal disruption to our activities.

ARC will be launching an insurance product covering Outbreaks and Epidemics, the insurance payouts will provide the funding required for an early and effective government response.

Alaba: How does the use of technology provide opportunities in the fact of natural disaster?

Lesley: Insurance is a data driven industry, data enables us to understand and calibrate risks, to develop appropriate mitigation measures. In parametric insurance we rely on satellites for rainfall data and we use technology to model and predict losses that arise from weather events. This data can be used to anticipate disasters and take timely action to prevent them or reduce their severity.

Alaba: What is the future for ARC in terms of its size, products and impact?

Lesley: ARC Ltd is currently diversifying its product range to include coverage against floods, tropical cyclones and outbreaks & epidemics. We already have a very successful drought insurance product which has been the mainstay of the company. The new products are essential to more holistically meet the needs of our clients and to ensure diversification on our balance sheet. These additional products will allow us to reach our ambition of US$100 million in gross revenues while ensuring that we are more relevant and credible in meeting the needs of our clients.

Alaba: As an industry leader, how can Africa better develop and position its insurance market?

Lesley: Insurance penetration, which is the ratio of insurance premiums to GDP remains rather low in Africa at 1 to 3% compared to over 10% in most developed markets. This low penetration is linked to limited knowledge of insurance as a risk management tool, lack of trust of insurance companies and products that are too complex and do not fully meet the needs and expectations of customers. The insurance industry plays an importance role in the economy by making households more resilient to shocks and giving entrepreneurs’ confidence to launch new ventures, in addition insurance companies are long term investors in the financial markets.

To grow the insurance industry, governments need to create an enabling regime through risk based supervision of insurance companies and the insurance industry needs to develop appropriate and relevant products and build distribution systems that make it easier and more cost effective to reach customers.

Alaba: How do you relax outside work? Tell us one of your favourite destinations in Africa? Why?

Lesley: I am an avid long distance runner, I run about 80 to 100km every week. Running clears my mind and makes me sharper and more focused. My favorite destination is Diani Beach in Kenya; it has dreamy unspoilt white sand beaches that stretch out as far as the eye can see.

Lindelwe Lesley Ndlovu

B I O G R A P H Y

Lindelwe Lesley Ndlovu

Lindelwe Lesley Ndlovu is an executive with extensive international experience in insurance and investment management. He is currently the CEO of the African Risk Capacity “ARC” Ltd. ARC Ltd is a specialist insurance company that provides parametric insurance coverage to African countries against extreme weather events and natural disasters.

Lesley spent close to a decade in various senior management roles in insurance and asset management with the AXA Group in London, Paris and Singapore, including as CEO of a Lloyd’s of London insurance syndicate, Head of Corporate Development for AXA Global Asset Management and Chief Investment Officer for AXA Singapore.

Prior to joining the AXA Group, he was Vice President, Investments at AXIS Capital in Bermuda, as part of an institutional investment team managing US$15 billion in a global multi-asset investment portfolio. He began his professional career with Deloitte, where he had various assignments in corporate finance, audit, tax advisory. He currently serves as a Non-Executive Director for various financial services companies around the world.

Lindelwe Lesley Ndlovu is a graduate of Christ Church, University of Oxford in England and at the Institut Européen d’Administration des Affaires (INSEAD) in France. He is a CFA charter holder, a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England & Wales and a member of the Institute of Directors.

Also Read: Interview with Monica Sekhmet Grant, President of Young Boss Media Inc.

Visit: African Risk Capacity

CEO Insights

Bamidele Adewole on closing the housing gap and real estate investment in Nigeria

Published

on

Bamidele Adewole is a seasoned finance expert and entrepreneur with a passion for real estate investment, financial advisory, and business development. With a proven track record of success, Bamidele has been instrumental in executing multi-million dollar transactions and advising a growing client base on wealth management and investment strategies. As a thought leader in the financial industry, Bamidele has authored several insightful reports, facilitated numerous seminars and webinars, and published a book, “The Smart Investor’s Guidebook” in 2020. In this exclusive interview with Alaba Ayinuola of Business Africa Online (BAO), Bamidele shares his inspiration for venturing into real estate as a financial and investment professional and the housing gap problem his company, PWAN STAR is solving. Excerpts.

 

 

Alaba: Could you tell us about PWAN STARS and your strategic role at the company?

Bamidele: The Company was set up with one primary objective- to reduce the housing gap in the country. We noticed that there was, and still is, a big challenge with accommodation in Nigeria and we decided to put our heads together, set up a business that would contribute in its own little way towards the reduction of this gap. This we are doing gradually as we currently have almost 100 housing units either developed or at various stages in the development process. Our plan is to have at least 7 to 10 building projects consisting of hundreds of units within our portfolio by the end of 2025.

My role as CEO in the company is simple. I am there to provide general guidance to the company and drive its vision which is to help make the dreams of Nigerians to own their own homes a reality. More specifically speaking, my role covers areas around strategy, product conceptualization, business development and risk management. I also oversee the finance and projects functions. It is my responsibility to ensure that we manage our finances optimally without endue exposure to financial liabilities and similar risks. I also work closely with the technical team in our projects department to coordinate the work of our vendors, artisans, contractors and the likes with the aim of delivering our projects within time and budget benchmarks.

 

Alaba: What sets your company apart from competitors in the industry?

Bamidele: What set us apart in my own view is our approach to business. We don’t believe in making too much noise or in using hype as a strategy to market our products. We prefer to drive our growth organically through risk management practices as well as product quality and customer service excellence. We don’t just sell products to our clients; we give them a memorable experience – one that would make them almost feel obliged to come back to do more business with us or at least refer us to their networks. We are building a niche for ourselves within the industry as one that does not compromise on standards and ethical considerations. We understand that our clients make sacrifices by investing with us and we do not take this for granted at all. I believe this strategy sets us apart, as many other players in the industry prefer to do things differently.

 

Alaba: Can you share a notable PWAN STARS achievement or success story?

Bamidele: One notable achievement to point to is our recent completion of a 12-unit apartment block located within the Ajayi Apata New Town, Sangotedo, called The Edifice Apartments. The property includes a fully equipped gymnasium, ample parking space, high speed fibre-optic internet cabling, treated water supply, a children’s playground, automated sewage management, good drainage and road network, horticulture, amongst others. It’s a fully serviced development with services such as cleaning, gardening, fumigation, internet provision, uniformed security, waste disposal and a dedicated customer service support team. We are very proud of this project and the fact that we were able to deliver it within a relatively short period of time, despite the economic headwinds we faced during construction.

 

Alaba: How is technology transforming the real estate industry, and how is your company adapting?

Bamidele: Technology is a big thing across all industries, and real estate is certainly not an exception. Technology is at the very heart of almost everything we do. From our construction methods, techniques and tools, to our interior finishing, infrastructure developments, provision of amenities and so on, we make sure we continually find ways to do things better and more efficiently through the use of technology. We are also driven by the need to make our customer experience more memorable by providing them with cutting edge options driven by technological ideas. 

 

Alaba: What trends do you see shaping the real estate market in Nigeria?

Bamidele: I see a greater role being played by technology. We are already in the era of smart home automation and I see it becoming more of a standard feature in housing developments, especially within the middle-class segment and potentially lower segment. I also expect to see more emphasis on the provision of green energy solutions as more developers are beginning to embrace sustainability practices in their developments. The awareness is growing amongst both developers and would-be homeowners. I expect that a time would come when building a residential property without including these features would be regarded as “old fashioned” and outdated. We are already incorporating these technologies and features into our developments, so we are well positioned and ready for the future that lies ahead.

 

Alaba: What inspired you to transition into real estate full time?

Bamidele: The major inspiration for my venturing into real estate was the desire to contribute as much as I could to solving a national problem. I knew I would never be able to do this alone, but I felt that if I played my role, it would help in some way, no matter how small. Also, as a finance and investment professional, real estate being a viable asset class, aligned with my background and training. It wasn’t so much about the financial rewards for me, even though that is important, but the fact that I felt it was something that would allow me make a difference to people by developing and promoting a product that could lead to financial empowerment and long-term wealth creation. 

Alaba: What’s one thing you wish people understood about real estate investment?

Bamidele: The major knowledge gap I see regarding real estate investment has to do with the expectation for short term returns. Some people see real estate investment as a scheme where you can invest and start to generate good returns immediately after. All investments require patience, but real estate requires even more patience as the real returns take time to manifest. I would say one should give at least 3 to 5 years to begin to derive the optimal rewards for investing in properties. This does not mean that one cannot generate returns within a shorter period; what it simply means is that on average, most property investments take time to deliver good returns. With good risk management practices, working with a reliable developer and a patient mindset, real estate investors can make a good and sustainable fortune on their investments over time. 

 

Alaba: Lastly, What advice would you give to aspiring real estate professionals?

Bamidele: My advice to them is not to get involved until they fully understand what it takes to survive and thrive in the industry. Because we have a “free entry, free exit” system in the country, there are so many developers who come in unprepared, get their fingers burnt, and aren’t able to cope with the demands and challenges they face. While having financial resources is not an absolute must, it is important that one at least understands how to raise funding for their business, as real estate is highly capital intensive. Many developers therefore struggle to make meaningful impact due to lack of funding and lack of understanding of how to raise funding for projects. Beyond this, there’s also the technical aspects of property business which is often overlooked by many real estate entrepreneurs.  I believe every aspiring developer should have a mentor or role model to help improve the quality of their decision making and ensure they don’t make the same mistakes that others before them made. As the popular saying goes, they should “look before they leap”.

 

BIOGRAPHY 

Bamidele Adewole is a seasoned finance expert and entrepreneur with a passion for real estate investment, financial advisory, and business development. With a proven track record of success, Bamidele has been instrumental in executing multi-million dollar transactions and advising a growing client base on wealth management and investment strategies.

As a thought leader in the financial industry, Bamidele has authored several insightful reports, facilitated numerous seminars and webinars, and published a book, “The Smart Investor’s Guidebook” in 2020. His expertise has been showcased on several TV stations, including Channels TV, TVC, Plus TV, and other prominent media outlets, as well as in print media.

As the CEO of PWAN STARS, a fast-growing real estate development company in Lagos, Nigeria, Bamidele drives the company’s vision with his entrepreneurial spirit, inspiring a team of motivated professionals to achieve exceptional results. His leadership has positioned the company as a major player in the industry.

Bamidele Adewole is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Chartered Institute for Taxation, and Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (UK). He is also a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission in Nigeria and an authorised Dealing Clerk of the Nigerian Exchange Group.

 

Download BAO E-MAGAZINE

Continue Reading

CEO Insights

Why I Started The Affluents Community – Remi Dairo

Published

on

Remi Dairo is a senior coach and principal consultant at Producitvate Plus USA. He is also the President of the Institute of Productivity and Business Innovation Management (IPBIM) a globally focused African institution of productivity and innovation learning. The institution is in partnership with some of the world’s best institutions around the globe. In this interview with Alaba Ayinuola of Business Africa Online (BAO), Remi shares his career path as a productivity expert and why he launched the Affluents community. Experts.

 

Alaba: What inspired you to become a productivity expert and what sets you apart from other productivity experts?

Remi: I believe this early exposure to the world of both the private and public sectors was instrumental in firing my passion for productivity. For one, I have always been appalled by indolence and inefficiency; moreover, it peeves me off when people say something cannot be done or that one puts effort only when the boss is looking. With time, this passion combined with a divine calling, culminating in what was then called The School of Productivity back in 2007, now known as the Institute of Productivity and Business Innovation Management. The same passion drives my company in the United States today, Productivate Plus LLC.

Download BAO E-MAGAZINE

Alaba: How do you define productivity, and what are some common misconceptions about productivity?

Remi: Well, I have my own peculiar definition of productivity. While to some it is efficiency or effectiveness, others take it as mere results; for me, productivity will come across as “Product+Activity”-that is, it is an activity that leads to a product. The product can be tangible or intangible, but what truly matters is the activity creating values. Therefore, I conclude that activity does not equal productivity, since not all activities amount to value either in the workplace or business; this is usually where the mistake occurs about productivity. Activity does not mean Productivity; this a big misconception about the concept of productivity.

 

Alaba: What is personal and national productivity?

Remi: Personal productivity is considered as the capability of an individual to manage or handle time, tasks, and resources effectively so that desired goals could be reached through a proper balance of quality and output from both a personal and a professional point of view. It means fully realizing one’s potential while sustaining well-being and fulfillment. Productivity on a national level, however, is the aggregate level of efficiency of all resources that a country has, such as labor, capital, and technology, in producing goods and services. It’s a driver of economic growth, which essentially means improved living standards and competitiveness at the international level.

 

Alaba: What inspired you to create The Affluents Community, and what problem does it solve for Internet entrepreneurs?

Remi: The Affluents Community was inspired by a need to provide a supportive space for internet entrepreneurs and career professionals on a mission to help regular, everyday people break free from mediocrity, increase productivity, become prosperous, and create the best life possible for themselves and their families. So many entrepreneurs and career professionals just need a place where they can be productive, make money, and live a life of legacy. The community focuses on productivity, prosperity, and posterity. This is a community issue that is addressed with mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and resources that help their online ventures grow sustainably. It empowers entrepreneurs and career professionals through the attainment of wealth, wellness, and purpose, creating success without having to go it alone.

 

Alaba: Can you share your personal journey as an entrepreneur and how it led to creating this community?

Remi: My journey was to become an entrepreneur and be productive but broke. I was working hard but was broke because I didn’t know the way to leverage new media and the internet space. Then, I realized while productivity is great, prosperity is the issue, period. I learned the power of collaboration, and once I achieved financial success, I found myself asking, “What next?” That is when I discovered how important fulfillment was, and leaving a lasting legacy. Further, this insight led to the creation of The Affluents Community, which focuses on three pillars: productivity, prosperity, and posterity.

 

Alaba: What makes your community “elite,” and what criteria do you use to select members?

Remi: The Affluents Elite is a special VIP group, designed and assembled for online entrepreneurs and career professionals who are not driven by financial success alone but committed to personal growth, fulfillment, and leaving a dent. That which really makes our community “elite” is the high level of collaboration, mentorship, and exclusive resources we offer to members ready to scale their businesses while sustaining a life of purpose and balance. In selecting its members, we look for those who show ambition, growth mindset, and genuine intention to give back and learn from the community. These entrepreneurs  and career professionals make sure that excellence is pursued in productivity, prosperity, and posterity.

 

Alaba: What exclusive benefits, resources, or opportunities do members gain access to?

Remi: Being part of this elite class, The Affluents enjoy an array of exclusive benefits, resources, and opportunities tailor-made to give a boost to an entrepreneurial journey. This will include, but is not limited to: 

  1. VIP Mentorship: Private coaching and guidance by industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs.
  2. Mastermind Sessions: High-level brainstorming at the elite member level and collaboration on how to defeat business challenges and scale up ventures. 
  3. Exclusive Tools and Resources: Access to premium content, templates, strategies, and courses on productivity, wealth creation, and legacy building. 
  4. Networking: A network of similar-minded entrepreneurs around the world for partnerships, collaborations, and investment opportunities.
  5. Special Events: Invitations to special retreats, workshops, and seminars on business growth, personal development, and fulfillment. 

 

Alaba: What are your plans for expanding the community, and what geographic or niche markets are you targeting?

Remi: My plans for scaling The Affluents Community involve the development of physical and digital hubs across key regions worldwide. We are targeting cities and states across the United States, as well as major markets in Asia, Canada, the UK, UAE, and Africa, where entrepreneurial and professional ecosystems are thriving.

Along with this geographic growth, other niche markets we are expanding into include internet entrepreneurs, digital marketers, e-commerce professionals, business consultants, and career professionals. The vision is to build active local chapters where entrepreneurs and career professionals can connect, collaborate, and tap into valuable resources. Through our global community, we will teach our members to be able to excel in productivity and financial success by building a life of fulfillment and legacy.

 

Alaba: How will you maintain the community’s exclusivity and high standards as it grows?

Remi: This means a careful selection process, screening new members according to the values of The Affluents Community as it scales. Regular assessments will help track engagement and quality. In turn, develop members through exclusive programming, curated events, and mentorship. Community standards will be upheld by local chapter leaders, with continuous learning crucial in keeping our members ahead of prevailing industry trends. These strategies also enable a culture of excellence among the entrepreneurs and career professionals.

 

Alaba: Lastly, What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to build their own communities?

Remi: Only a few principles have to be followed by aspiring entrepreneurs desirous of building communities of their own. Among them are:

Define Your Purpose: Knowing your mission will attract people with similar mindsets.

Create Authentic Connections: Actually build good relationships and listen to the needs of members.

Add Value: Provide relevant resources and support for overcoming challenges. 

Invite Collaboration: Create opportunities for sharing insights among members.

Be Adaptable: Stay open to feedback; evolve as necessary.

Strong Leadership: Surround yourself with a dedicated team who shares your vision.

Continue Reading

CEO Insights

Linda Obi on advancing digital health and transforming healthcare in Africa

Published

on

Linda Obi, CEO of AfriHealth (Photo: Supplied)

Africa’s health tech sector is booming, with 1,100+ startups transforming healthcare delivery through mobile solutions, telemedicine, and electronic records, tackling maternal health, infectious diseases, and non-communicable diseases across the continent. In this exclusive interview, Alaba Ayinuola of Business Africa Online (BAO) delves into Linda Obi’s journey, exploring the challenges and opportunities in Africa’s health tech ecosystem, AfriHealth cutting-edge solutions, and the future of healthcare on the continent. Excerpts.

 

Alaba: Could you please share your journey into health tech and entrepreneurship?

Linda: Absolutely, I’d love to share my story. My journey into health tech began unexpectedly while I was deeply engaged in various technology roles over the past 15 years. Working extensively with Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain, I was always passionate about using technology to bridge gaps and solve real-world problems across different sectors.

During this time, I became increasingly aware of the significant disparities in healthcare access, especially in underserved communities. Witnessing these challenges firsthand ignited a desire in me to make a meaningful impact. This realization led me to transition into health tech, where I saw a unique opportunity to leverage my expertise to transform healthcare delivery.

As the CEO of AfriHealth, headquartered in Lagos, I have been privileged to lead initiatives that revolutionize healthcare across Africa. Our flagship product, Rigour+, is a telemedicine app designed to connect patients with healthcare providers seamlessly, regardless of their location. Seeing Rigour+ improve access to quality healthcare and enhance efficiency has been incredibly fulfilling.

Beyond technology, I am committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within AfriHealth. Building a diverse team has been essential to our innovation and success, ensuring that our solutions address a wide range of needs.

Download BAO E-MAGAZINE

Looking ahead, my vision is to position AfriHealth as a global leader in health tech, driving societal change through innovative solutions. I am excited about the potential of emerging technologies to further enhance our services and extend our impact beyond Africa, making healthcare accessible to communities worldwide.

In essence, my entrepreneurial journey has been driven by a blend of professional passion and a personal commitment to making healthcare more equitable and effective for everyone.

 

Alaba: What is the inspiration behind AfriHealth, and how did you identify the problem your company solves?

Linda: The inspiration behind AfriHealth is rooted in a deep understanding of the healthcare challenges that Africa faces. From the start, the mission was clear: to leverage technology to address the widespread issues of limited access to quality healthcare, especially in remote and underserved areas. I was drawn to this vision because, throughout my own career in technology, I had seen how innovation could bridge critical gaps in other sectors, and I knew it could do the same in healthcare.

Africa’s healthcare system faces unique pressures, from the severe shortage of medical professionals and infrastructure gaps to the high burden of chronic diseases and preventable illnesses. These challenges inspired the creation of Rigour+, our telemedicine platform that brings healthcare directly to people, regardless of where they are. By integrating Artificial Intelligence, we’re not just improving access but also enhancing the quality of care, providing personalized health solutions and predictive analytics that help healthcare providers make informed decisions.

The problem we’re solving at AfriHealth is about more than just access—it’s about equity. We believe that everyone, no matter where they live, deserves quality healthcare, and technology is the key to making that vision a reality. This mission continues to drive our innovations and our commitment to transforming healthcare delivery across Africa.

 

Alaba: What are your offerings, and how are you different from other health tech startups in Africa?

At AfriHealth, we solve three core problems: access to doctors, access to authentic medications, and access to emergency response services. These are critical challenges in Africa, where geographical and infrastructural barriers make it difficult for millions to get the medical attention they need.

Our flagship product, Rigour+, directly addresses these issues. First, we ensure access to qualified doctors through our network of over 1,000 specialized, vetted, and verified healthcare professionals. Patients can consult with doctors across various specialties, including general medicine, cardiology, and pediatrics, regardless of their location. This is especially crucial in rural and underserved areas, where medical expertise is scarce.

Second, we tackle the challenge of access to authentic medications by partnering with trusted pharmacies. Through our platform, patients can easily connect with verified pharmacies, ensuring they receive genuine, safe medications. This is essential in a market where counterfeit drugs are a persistent issue.

Lastly, our emergency response service sets us apart. We’ve onboarded state-of-the-art ambulances and partnered with top-rated emergency providers to offer immediate access to emergency services. Whether it’s in a remote village or a bustling city, we ensure that emergency response is quick, efficient, and reliable, covering everything from transport to life-saving interventions.

What differentiates us from other health tech startups is our holistic approach to solving healthcare challenges. Many platforms focus on one aspect of care, but AfriHealth integrates multiple layers—consultations, medication, and emergency services—into a seamless experience. By ensuring that every element is verified, from doctors to pharmacies to ambulances, we provide a level of trust and reliability that truly sets us apart. Our commitment to building partnerships and maintaining a scalable, accessible platform ensures we’re not just another health tech solution but one that addresses the core challenges of healthcare in Africa comprehensively and sustainably.

 

Alaba: What role do you see AI, blockchain, or other technologies playing in healthcare?

Linda: I believe technologies like AI and blockchain are game-changers in healthcare, especially in Africa where we face unique challenges. Let me explain why.

When I think about Artificial Intelligence (AI), I see a tool that can personalize and enhance healthcare for everyone. Imagine a mother in a remote village who can use her phone to consult with a specialist hundreds of miles away. AI makes this possible by analyzing symptoms, medical histories, and even predicting health issues before they become critical. At AfriHealth, we’ve integrated AI into Rigour+ to connect patients with the right doctors quickly, breaking down geographical barriers and saving precious time.

Blockchain technology addresses another critical issue: trust. Unfortunately, counterfeit medications are a real problem here, and they pose serious risks to people’s health. By using blockchain’s secure and transparent system, we can track and verify medications from the manufacturer all the way to the patient. This means that when someone gets medicine through our platform, they can be confident it’s authentic and safe. It restores faith in the healthcare system, which is so important.

Other technologies like the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and augmented reality are also opening new doors. IoMT devices allow doctors to monitor patients’ health remotely, which is invaluable for managing chronic conditions without requiring frequent hospital visits. Augmented reality can help train medical professionals more effectively, improving the quality of care across the board.

In essence, these technologies aren’t just advanced tools—they’re solutions to real problems that affect people’s lives every day. They help us make healthcare more accessible, reliable, and personalized. I’m genuinely excited about the possibilities they bring, and I’m committed to leveraging them to make a tangible difference in our communities. It’s about using innovation to improve lives, and that’s what drives me every day.

 

Alaba: What’s the one thing you wish people understood about health tech?

Linda: I wish people understood that health tech isn’t just about technology—it’s fundamentally about people and improving their lives. While the advancements in AI, blockchain, and other technologies are exciting, the true essence of health tech lies in its potential to bridge critical gaps in healthcare access and quality, especially in regions like Africa where these gaps are most pronounced.

Many assume that health tech is all about cutting-edge gadgets or complex algorithms, but at its heart, it’s a means to make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and efficient for everyone. For instance, in many parts of Africa, people face significant barriers to basic healthcare services due to distance, lack of infrastructure, or shortages of medical professionals. Health tech solutions like our platform, Rigour+, are designed to overcome these challenges by connecting patients with specialized, vetted doctors, ensuring access to authentic medications through our track-and-trace system, and providing timely emergency response services.

It’s also about building trust and empowering communities. By leveraging technologies like AI and blockchain, we’re not just innovating for innovation’s sake—we’re creating reliable systems that people can depend on for their health and well-being. This trust is crucial because it encourages people to seek care when they need it, leading to better health outcomes.

So, the one thing I wish people understood is that health tech is a powerful enabler of positive change. It’s about using technology as a tool to solve real human problems, to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, and to create a healthier future for communities worldwide. At AfriHealth, that’s the driving force behind everything we do. We’re committed to not just advancing technology, but to transforming lives through accessible and compassionate healthcare solutions.

 

Alaba: From your experience in building a business in Africa, what are the lessons for entrepreneurs and investors?

Linda: Building a business in Africa is both an exciting and challenging journey—it’s rewarding, but it’s not without its hurdles. One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability. Things don’t always go as planned, and you might face obstacles like infrastructural issues or bureaucratic delays. It’s crucial to stay patient and flexible, adjusting your strategies as needed.

Another important lesson is that relationships matter immensely. In many African countries, business is deeply personal. Taking the time to build genuine connections with local communities, partners, and government officials can make a significant difference. Trust and mutual respect open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Understanding the local context is also vital. Africa is incredibly diverse, with each country—and even regions within countries—having its own unique culture, regulations, and market dynamics. Doing your homework and immersing yourself in the local environment helps you tailor your business to meet specific needs effectively.

I also want to emphasize that innovation doesn’t always mean high-tech solutions. Sometimes, the most impactful innovations are simple ideas that solve everyday problems. For example, at AfriHealth, we focus on making healthcare accessible by connecting people to doctors and authentic medications using technologies that are readily available, like mobile phones.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of persistence. There will be challenges—whether it’s dealing with inconsistent power supply, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, or addressing logistical issues. But if you’re committed to your vision and willing to put in the effort, the rewards can be tremendous. You’re not just building a business; you’re contributing to growth and making a real difference in people’s lives.

So, for entrepreneurs and investors looking at Africa, I’d say: come with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Be ready to adapt, build strong relationships, and focus on creating solutions that resonate with the local communities. It’s not always easy, but the journey is incredibly fulfilling and full of opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

 

Alaba: How do you feel as a female entrepreneur and venture builder in Africa?

Linda: As a female entrepreneur and venture builder in Africa, I feel a profound sense of purpose and responsibility. It’s a journey that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Being a woman in this space means navigating a landscape where barriers still exist, but it also means having the opportunity to drive meaningful change and inspire others.

I am deeply motivated by the resilience and potential of the people around me. Africa is a continent brimming with innovation, creativity, and untapped talent, especially among women. Every day, I witness the incredible ideas and solutions that emerge when diverse voices are heard and included. This fuels my commitment to not only build successful ventures but also to pave the way for other women to step into leadership roles.

Being a female leader here is about more than personal success; it’s about contributing to a larger movement towards equality and empowerment. It’s about challenging the status quo and breaking down stereotypes that have limited opportunities for women in the past. I strive to create environments where everyone’s contributions are valued, and where mentorship and support are readily available.

There is a unique strength that comes from overcoming obstacles and turning challenges into opportunities. I feel honored to be part of a community of women who are redefining what entrepreneurship looks like in Africa. Together, we’re not just building businesses—we’re building a legacy of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity.

In essence, being a female entrepreneur in Africa fills me with hope and determination. It’s a role that allows me to make a tangible impact on people’s lives, to uplift communities, and to inspire the next generation of leaders. It’s a journey I’m incredibly proud to be on, and I’m excited about what the future holds as we continue to break new ground and reach new heights together.

 

Alaba: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs in health tech?

Linda: To all the aspiring female entrepreneurs venturing into health tech, I want to say this: believe in the power of your vision and the impact you can make. The journey won’t always be easy, but your passion and determination are invaluable assets that can drive meaningful change.

Embrace your unique perspective. As women, we bring diverse insights and experiences that can lead to innovative solutions, especially in healthcare, where empathy and understanding are crucial. Don’t shy away from sharing your ideas because they could be the key to addressing unmet needs in our communities.

Build a strong network and seek mentorship. Surround yourself with people who support and challenge you to grow. Mentors can provide guidance, open doors to opportunities, and help you navigate the complexities of the industry. Remember, you don’t have to walk this path alone.

Stay resilient in the face of challenges. There will be obstacles—whether it’s funding hurdles, skepticism, or balancing personal commitments—but resilience is your greatest ally. Every setback is a learning opportunity that brings you one step closer to your goals.

Be bold and take risks. Innovation often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to disrupt the status quo if it means creating better solutions for healthcare challenges. Your courage can lead to breakthroughs that make a real difference.

Prioritize collaboration over competition. The health tech field thrives on collaboration. Working together with others—be it other entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, or technologists—can amplify your impact and lead to more holistic solutions.

Keep the end goal in sight. Always remember why you started: to improve lives through better healthcare. Let that purpose drive you forward, motivate you during tough times, and inspire others around you.

Lastly, believe in yourself and your abilities. Your contributions are not just important—they are essential. By pursuing your passion in health tech, you’re not only shaping the future of healthcare but also paving the way for more women to follow in your footsteps.

Continue Reading

Ads

Most Viewed