NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 20 – Kenya is targeting a bigger share of East Africa’s rapidly expanding healthcare market by leveraging stronger regional trade corridors and cross-border supply chains.
The push comes ahead of the 10th World Health Expo (WHX) in Nairobi this September, where industry players are expected to forge new partnerships amid rising demand for healthcare products and services.
The September 16–18 event is expected to bring together more than 5,500 participants and over 200 exhibitors from 30 countries, highlighting growing investor interest in East Africa’s healthcare market.
Market data shows the region’s health and wellness industry is projected to expand from an estimated USD 16.8 billion in 2025 to USD 23.6 billion by 2034, supported by population growth, urbanization and increasing healthcare investment.
The East African hospitals market is estimated at USD 9.25 billion, while the pharmaceutical market is valued at about USD 2.39 billion.
Organizers say Kenya’s logistics network and regional trade links have positioned Nairobi as East Africa’s healthcare distribution hub.
They add that harmonized regulations and faster customs clearance are needed to unlock the region’s full trade potential.
WHX Portfolio Director Tom Coleman said stronger regional connectivity is reshaping how healthcare companies serve East African markets.
“As regional trade corridors strengthen and healthcare supply chains become more connected, Nairobi is increasingly the place where manufacturers, distributors, hospital groups and policymakers can build partnerships.”
“Those partnerships help move products more efficiently, improve access to healthcare and support the next phase of healthcare delivery across the region.”
The region remains heavily reliant on imported medical products, making efficient procurement, logistics and distribution critical to the healthcare value chain.
That dependence is also creating opportunities for logistics providers, distributors, digital health companies and manufacturers seeking regional expansion through Kenya.
World Bank data shows Kenya spent 5.76% of its GDP on healthcare, with per capita expenditure of USD 327.76, highlighting growing demand and continued investment needs.
The exhibition will showcase products and services across medical devices, diagnostics, laboratory technology, digital health, healthcare infrastructure, orthopedics, physiotherapy and consumables, sectors.
