AFICTF seeks technology intervention in healthcare

 To tackle the impact of COVID-19, a foundation, African ICT Foundation, AfICTF, has called for more information technology interventions by private donors in the health sector especially as countries are gradually lifting lockdown protocols.

It also tasks start-ups on the need to define strategies that are adaptable to current realities and at the same time establish guidelines for the post COVID-19 period.

In a webinar hosted by the foundation on ‘Post COVID-19 Recovery Map for Africa’s MSMES’, a member of the Board of Trustee (BOT), Mr. Oludare Akinbo while speaking on the “Impact of COVID-19 on the African Health Sector and the way Forward”, stressed the need to encourage investors and other private donors to invest in health infrastructures in Africa.

According to him, the COVID-19 has created an impact on the African health sector affecting health workers, the average Africans, infrastructure and finance as well as the patients.

Akinbo noted that there are already increased costs of care and heightened risk in the health sectors across countries in the continent noting that the sector needs infrastructure and financing.

While expressing concern about the heavy toll on healthcare providers as well as the increased cost of care and risk to health, Akinbo called for improved and collaborative healthcare financing including increased Investment on infrastructure and basic healthcare.

He disclosed that the pandemic has exposed the need for a Pro Active Healthcare System and the need for a good PHC in Africa.

Also speaking at the webinar, Second Vice President, African ICT Foundation, Racheal Orumor in a presentation, ‘Beyond COVID-19: African Startups Persistence Strategy’, urged startups to note that cessation of activities has been worrisome for most promoters, and they are unwilling to keep up with investment.

According to her, startups are facing many difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and that the crisis period is widening with its duration still indefinite.

To survive this period, she suggested for startups, collaborative work and social interaction as key elements for the development of innovative ideas.