Could African solutions treat COVID-19?

Spotlighting potential health innovations in Senegal and Madagascar

As the spread of COVID-19 changes the global landscape, there’s a greater spotlight on the continent of Africa. Many are questioning whether it can withstand this global pandemic, especially as headlines about the continent are mired in doom and predicting another tragic narrative. Rather than looking at Africa as a source for developing treatment against this deadly virus, some in Western countries believe it’s better suited as a testing ground for a vaccine, declared two French doctors. We can’t ignore the role of racism and the impact of colonialism in shaping perceptions of Africa, especially during this pandemic.

 The impact of COVID-19 is still an enigma but despite the frenzy, countries in Africa are familiar with grim health conditions. Not too long ago, the continent faced and suffered from the deadly Ebola virus and today still battles polio, malaria, HIV/AIDS, and diseases that are easily treated in Western countries afforded greater access to medical technology. Despite the continent’s limited health resources, innovation is in the DNA and heart of Africa.

 Senegal is shifting the narrative that medical innovations can only be derived from Western countries. Aljazeera reported Senegal’s 10-minute coronavirus diagnostic test for $1 and additional reports to celebrate the country’s use of 3D technology to develop ventilators. Truth be told, the development of novel solutions in Africa is not new. However, the idea of innovation across Africa is still an anomaly and goes against the myopic narrative of African countries. The news stories on Senegal’s diagnostic solutions to help flatten the curve were much-needed to dispel negative perceptions of the continent.  

Africa has always been ripe with innovation, defying traditional thinking espoused by the Western nations. In Madagascar, there’s news of an anti-COVID-19 herbal treatment, which is generating much interest and skepticism. CNBC Africa reported on Madagascar’s herbal treatment and the need for a clinical trial to test the efficacy of this herbal liquid. Countries across Africa and the African Union are looking into this herbal treatment with caution.

In short, we can’t underestimate African talent and solutions and must invest in the future of the continent for it to succeed. To drive economic growth across Africa, we must invest in people, products, and partnerships to improve healthcare solutions and increase access to critical resources to address the spread of diseases. We can invest with impact without diluting the continent’s rich culture and heritage and work with entrepreneurs, community stakeholders, and health practitioners to design approaches to address African challenges.

 We must support early and growth-stage businesses now more than ever to develop the next game-changing product to realize a healthy future.