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As an emerging startup focused on AI-driven healthcare solutions in Africa, we reviewed the Media and Development Conference 2023 in Abuja, Nigeria, which turned out to be a pivotal event for sketching the future of African healthcare. Key insights from the conference, as reported by Premium Times, highlighted the critical role AI could play in establishing a resilient, comprehensive primary healthcare system across the continent. This consensus among technology leaders, researchers, and healthcare professionals underscores our mission to leverage AI for ensuring accessible, quality health services for everyone in Africa.
The following are key quotes from some of the speakers:
1. Darlington Akogo, founder and CEO of minoHealth AI Labs, said AI stands to help fill gaps created by physician shortages across Nigeria (population: 225 million) and beyond, the Premium Times reports. This capability can automate administrative duties so physicians can see more patients, Akogo noted. However, he cautioned, it “may be difficult” to get AI to complete tasks as humans would. Furthermore:
“AI is a powerful technology that, when harnessed for good, can transform societies. The whole idea of AI is that it is a machine with human abilities and its potential is immense; however, there are limitations to what it can provide. We need to ensure safety by deploying it in ethical contexts.”
2. Oluwakemi (“Kemi”) Gbadamosi, director of advocacy and policy for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Africa Bureau:
“For AI to make a real impact [on population health], we require a distinct document outlining frameworks for both IT and healthcare.”
“We need to ‘sell’ AI in the right way, highlighting its potential benefits. Moreover, there’s a need for audience education and robust data protection measures as we venture into this new era.”
4. Shehu Tijjani Yusuf, PhD, senior lecturer in economics and history at Bayero University in Kano, Nigeria:
“Unless we take [AI] very seriously, we will be left behind just like what happened [during] the Industrial Revolution.”
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