How MUHAS Students’ Innovations are changing Tanzania healthcare system and beyond.

Imagine a world where a mobile App can tell you if you’re at risk of developing Hypertension or Diabetes and help you out, or where a simple medical device can stop massive bleeding from a bleeding mother after giving a birth without injecting any drug! I forgot to say that, your laptop or smartphone now can read and give results of cervical cancer like a pathologist in just 10 seconds! Can you imagine that, like a cardiologist (heart specialist) your smartphone or laptop can read and interpret results of how your heart is beating (ECGs) Stop imagining, because these realities are being shaped by the Students at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS)! Today, we are bringing you some of the incredible startups founded by MUHAS students, all tackling critical issues and making a real difference in Tanzania and beyond both in health care and in businesses.

1. Saratani Ai: Redefining Cancer Diagnosis.

Waiting weeks for cervical cancer results is a thing of the past! Cervical cancer is a silent killer, but Saratani Ai aims to change that narrative. Founded by Sang’udi Sang’udi a MUHAS student, this AI-powered software accelerates the process of cervical cancer tests, delivering results in just 10 seconds instead of traditional 7 to 10 days. Such efficiency not only ensures timely diagnosis but also enhances accuracy, offering hope to countless individuals. The innovation is under MUHAS incubation program.

2. Afya Ai: Empowering Early Detection of Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus.

The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes are on rises in Tanzania and globally, worse enough some people do not realize that they have these medical conditions until it is too late to them. Early detection becomes crucial. Afya Ai, an Artificial Intelligence-powered mobile application, stands at the forefront of this battle. Developed by Walter Andrew a MUHAS students, Afya Ai assesses and determines an individual's risk of developing conditions like hypertension and diabetes. By enabling early detection, this innovative tool has the potential to save lives and reduce the burden on healthcare systems. The innovation is currently under MUHAS incubation program.

3. Pona Health: Your Gateway to Medical Consultation.

In a world where access to healthcare is paramount, Pona Health emerges as a beacon of hope. This online medical consultation mobile application connects users with licensed health professionals, offering convenience, affordability, and accessibility. Through Pona Health Mobile App you can book appointment and make online consultation with a doctor simply through your mobile phone anywhere and get your problem solved. Not all medical conditions, need physical consultation, MUHAS students behind Pona Health have created a platform that not only complements traditional healthcare services but also provides a source of income for healthcare professionals. Their commitment to bridging the gap between patients and practitioners deserves accolades, as they pave the way for a more connected healthcare ecosystem. The App founder is Shabani Busega. The innovation is under MUHAS incubation program.

4. Cardiac Tek: Unlocking the Power of AI in Healthcare

For many hospitals in developing countries including Tanzania, staff shortages are a harsh reality. Imagine a scenario where healthcare facilities are equipped with ECG machines, but there aren't enough skilled professionals to interpret the results. But fear not! Cardiac Tek is here! Cardiac Tek, a groundbreaking software developed by MUHAS students. This ingenious tool utilizes artificial intelligence to read ECGs and provides interpretations at a cardiologist's level. With Cardiac Tek, even healthcare providers with minimal ECG reading skills can accurately interpret results, potentially saving countless lives. The innovation and dedication behind Cardiac Tek are truly commendable, offering a solution to a critical healthcare challenge. Its founders are Longnus Gilbert and Silvano Bairon.

5. Tiba Fasta: Bringing Healthcare Home.

Recovering at home shouldn't mean missing out on medical care! For patients in need of home-based care, Tiba Fasta emerges as a lifeline. This mobile application connects home-based patients with a pool of healthcare professionals, facilitating procedures ranging from nursing to physiotherapy and much more. A patient can use App to call a nurse for drug injection at home, minor dressing procedures or call a physiotherapist for physiotherapy and much more. MUHAS students behind Tiba Fasta have pioneered a platform that not only saves costs and time but also provides an alternative source of income for medical professionals. The App founders are Lightness Meena, Yohana Mwakatobe, Walter Andrew, Elizabeth Mdete, Anna Nyaga and Charles Mika.

6. tellAdvert: Revolutionizing E-Commerce through Artificial Intelligence.

Unlike other Apps explained in this blog this is not a medical App it is an ecommerce. tellAdvert is the awards winning App that use artificial intelligence to give customers a purchase and negotiation power to buy anything at a discounted price without compromising the seller profits. Actually, the App has been proved to increase sellers’ sales at rate of two times higher as compared to selling in other conventional ecommerce platforms. The App has been recognized by the Inter-Universities council of East Africa for its innovation, as the potential technology that will help businesses in East Africa Community to become more resilient. The App founder is Walter Andrew.

7. Afya Toon: Health Education through Entertainment

Health education meets entertainment with Afya Toon, a startup dedicated to advocating healthy lifestyles through animated content. Founded by Dr. Edwin Ngula and his counterpart Glory Charles, Afya Toon has earned numerous accolades for its innovative approach to health promotion. By leveraging the power of cartoons, this startup aims to prevent diseases by educating and inspiring audiences. The creators of Afya Toon exemplify the transformative potential of creative storytelling in healthcare advocacy. This startup is among of MUHAS student founded startups that has won most national and international of awards.

10. Dawa Mkononi: Empowering Pharmacy Owners.

In the realm of pharmaceuticals, Dawa Mkononi emerges as a trailblazer. This B2C mobile application enables pharmacy owners to order drugs and manage inventories seamlessly. Founded by Dr. Joseph Paul and Dr. Clemence Exaudi, Asorael Ayo, Dawa Mkononi has attracted substantial funding, underscoring its potential to transform the pharmaceutical landscape. Dawa Mkononi was among of Tanzanian startups that raised most funds in 2023. The creators of Dawa Mkononi exemplify the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, driving positive change in healthcare distribution.

11. Huduma Fasta: Empowering Freelancers in gig economy.

The gig economy receives a boost with Huduma Fasta, a freelancing platform connecting individuals with diverse service providers. Founded by MUHAS students, this award-winning startup facilitates access to a wide range of services, from design to education, fostering economic empowerment and efficiency. For example, from the App you can find and get a logo designer, web developers, a tuition teacher, a lawyer, gardener or MC & event planner for your event etc. The platform grew rapidly when was initially launched; it attracted investors and was sold by its founders to investors in late of 2023. The platform was founded by Lucy Kitambala and her counterpart Walter Andrew.

12. Mkanda Salama: Safeguarding Maternal Health.

In the realm of maternal healthcare, Mkanda Salama emerges as a lifesaving innovation. It is wrap around the womb and use pressure to press the uterine and make it to contract to stop bleeding. Developed by MUHAS students, this safe wrap is designed to prevent post-partum hemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal mortality. By providing a simple yet effective solution, Mkanda Salama has garnered recognition at national and international levels, shining a spotlight on the importance of maternal health innovation. The creators of Mkanda Salama are true heroes, shoutout to it founders, Paschal Kija, James Kalema and Frank Isreal for contributing to the fight against maternal mortality with their ingenuity and dedication. The innovation is under MUHAS incubation program.

13. Medications at Your Fingertips: Pharma Link

Ever run out of vital meds at the worst possible time? Say goodbye to frantic pharmacy runs with Pharma Link! This web-based platform is like a magic portal for pharmacies. Owners can showcase and sell their pharmaceutical products online through a website, making it super convenient for customers to refill prescriptions or browse for what they need and buy medicine in their fingertips. It's a win-win for everyone: easier access to medications and a boost for local pharmacies. Big thanks to Castory Munish for this health-tech hero!

14. Ai enabled digital partogram. Saving Mothers, during giving birth.

Meet the AI-powered digital partogram! No more mountains of paperwork. This whiz-bang invention lets nurses or doctors record labor progress electronically. But that's not all! This super-smart system acts like a guardian angel, alerting medical staff to any danger signs and even suggesting life-saving actions to take. Huge shoutout to founder David Shukran and co-founders Clara Mcharo, and Ritha Subira for this innovation that's bringing down maternal mortality rates and making labor management a breeze!

15. Smart Whitecane. A Smart Stick for Blinds, Giving the Visually Impaired a Helping Hand!

Imagine a world where you can explore fearlessly, even without a sight. The genius "stick for the blind" is here! This digital marvel uses sensors to detect obstacles before a blind personal step on them and get harmed. No more bumps or bruises, just smooth sailing for the visually impaired. This revolutionary invention is a game-changer, empowering the blind to navigate with confidence. Bravo to its founder Harry Kisaka Salehe.

Impact and Beyond:

As these startups continue to flourish, their impact extends far beyond the borders of Tanzania. With solutions ranging from healthcare to e-commerce, they exemplify the transformative power of innovation and entrepreneurship. By addressing pressing challenges and pioneering new frontiers, MUHAS students are not only shaping the future of healthcare but also driving economic growth and empowerment. As these startups continue to make waves, they are poised to leave an indelible mark on Tanzania and the world at large.