African health start-up Zipline on the forefront of COVID-19 fight
Tech health start-ups have seen a jump in not only investor appetite but also in the ease of operation with many economies looking at them for go to solutions in the wake of the coronavirus. But how has this translated into business sense for them?
Wed, 22 Apr 2020 10:23:48 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- Zipline's multifaceted operations in Ghana and Rwanda involve delivering medical samples, personal protective equipment, and routine healthcare services, showcasing the company's versatility in meeting diverse healthcare needs.
- Accelerated growth at Zipline during the pandemic underscores the essential nature of its technology in supporting healthcare systems and responding swiftly to evolving demands.
- Despite the focus on COVID-19-related operations, Zipline remains committed to maintaining traditional healthcare services like vaccine distribution and medication delivery through its contactless drone delivery system.
The global outbreak of the novel coronavirus has brought the spotlight on healthcare startups, with investors showing a heightened interest in innovative solutions. One such company that has been at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19 is Zipline. The tech health startup has not only seen a surge in investor appetite but has also witnessed an increase in operational efficiency, making it a go-to solution for many countries grappling with the pandemic. CNBC Africa recently spoke to Israel Bimpe, the Head of National Implementation at Zipline, to gain insights into the company's strategies and impact in Ghana, Rwanda, and the United States. Zipline's operations in Ghana and Rwanda are multifaceted, ranging from delivering medical samples and personal protective equipment to facilitating routine healthcare services for patients with chronic illnesses like HIV and cancer. Amid the unprecedented demand for swift responses during the pandemic, Zipline has experienced accelerated growth, highlighting the critical role of its technology in supporting healthcare systems. Bimpe shared that Zipline is gearing up to expand its services in the US, with plans to obtain the necessary certification to commence operations soon. The company's ability to adapt swiftly to evolving demands, such as delivering COVID-19 testing samples and cancer drugs, underscores its agility and dedication to meeting healthcare needs. With a robust platform capable of handling a variety of medical products, Zipline remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services, even amidst the COVID-19 crisis. By leveraging its contactless drone delivery system, Zipline continues to provide essential medical supplies to healthcare facilities, maintaining crucial healthcare services while adhering to social distancing measures. While the pandemic has led to a shift towards COVID-19-focused operations, Zipline remains steadfast in supporting traditional healthcare services like vaccine distribution and medication delivery, demonstrating its versatility and resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges.