AI’s Impact on SMEs in the Pharmaceutical Sector
Microsoft has highlighted the transformative potential of AI for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the pharmaceutical sector. According to Gerald Maithya, General Manager at the Microsoft Africa Transformation Office, AI can enhance financial access, optimize operational processes, and improve service delivery for these businesses. This, in turn, could significantly improve national healthcare provision, ensuring better availability of medicines.
Partnership with Zendawa
In a recent partnership with the Kenyan startup, Microsoft is set to reimagine pharmaceutical operations across East Africa. Zendawa, in collaboration with tech firm Flapmax and Microsoft, is rolling out AI-powered solutions aimed at improving the pharmaceutical landscape in both rural and urban areas.
Gerald Maithya emphasized: “Zendawa is a great example of what small businesses in Africa can accomplish with AI. Microsoft’s ambition is to democratize our breakthroughs in AI to help local businesses be more productive and solve the most pressing problems of the continent. We’re excited to support Zendawa as they look to transform access to quality healthcare in Africa”
AI-Driven Marketplace and Service Enhancement
Through the partnership, Zendawa has established an online marketplace where users can order pharmaceutical products. AI technology enables Zendawa to match orders to the nearest pharmacy and provide last-mile delivery services. This streamlined approach ensures efficient service delivery and optimizes supply chain management.
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Wilfred Chege, Co-founder and CEO of Zendawa, noted: “Operational expenses account for around 70 percent of pharmacies’ annual budget allocation. Zendawa provides these businesses with a digital suite to track their online and offline sales. AI analyzes data from these tools to develop credit scores, unlocking access to capital for restocking and utility payments”
Supporting Local Pharmacies and Economic Growth
Currently, Zendawa serves 520 pharmacies in the region, with plans to expand to 10,000 by the end of the year. The startup’s growth aims to enhance the availability of essential medicines and support small business development and job creation across East Africa.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Microsoft, Zendawa, and Flapmax exemplifies how AI can revolutionize the pharmaceutical sector in East Africa. By leveraging AI for operational efficiency, financial access, and service delivery, this partnership is set to significantly improve healthcare provision and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships, Microsoft and Zendawa are paving the way for a more efficient, accessible, and equitable healthcare system in East Africa.