With around 1,956 hospitals and 48,900 hospital beds, Zambia has the 10th largest healthcare market in Sub-Saharan Africa. The market is operated as a public-private system with the public sector constituting about 69% by expenditure. The newly launched national insurance scheme is facilitating improvements in attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and a stable political environment is enabling long-term healthcare strategies. The health sector is faced with several challenges including reliance on foreign aid, shortages in the healthcare workforce and inequalities between rural and urban areas which are hindering the attainment of UHC and limiting the system’s capacity for long term growth.

The small and unconsolidated nature of the private health sector and the growing digital health sector indicate decent opportunity for growth. By utilizing this and other opportunities, numerous challenges can be addressed. As healthier populations contribute to stronger local economies, an improved health sector would have a profound impact on economic development.

At Red Black Ventures, we believe that unlocking the full value of the Zambian health sector requires a deeper understanding of its unique challenges and opportunities. We therefore keep a close eye on new trends, gather data, and work with organizations to develop strategies that help them succeed in the sector.