Pathology Network, a digital referral platform for pathologists in Kenya, has secured an investment of $50,000 from Villgro Kenya, an early-stage business incubator in the East African region.
The Pathology Network is an artificial intelligence-powered digital platform linking small labs to specialized labs for seamless test referrals. It provides access to specialists remotely, shortening the turn around time for diagnosis and, therefore, promoting early medical intervention for prevention and treatment.
Through the Pathology Network platform, small labs refer the specimen to specialized regional labs for processing and slide digitization in readiness for a pathologist to diagnose and report on the cases remotely.
Dr. Joshua Kibera, Chief Executive Officer at the Pathology Network Limited described the investment as catalytic. According to him, the company would also greatly benefit from the technical assistance and business coaching offered by the Villgro Kenya team.
“On behalf of everyone at the Pathology Network, I would like to thank Villgro Kenya for a meticulous and transparent due diligence process and for choosing to invest in our company. We are excited to partner with VK and look forward to revolutionizing the diagnostic space together.”
Kenya has over 47,000 new cancer cases and 33,000 cancer-related deaths annually with a limited number of cancer diagnosis centres and pathologists, translating into delays in diagnosing cancer early enough for treatment.
“This investment comes at a time when most investors are scaling back on deals due to the business slump being experienced in many parts as a result of COVID-19. At Villgro Kenya, we strongly feel that this is the time that enterprises need all the financial support that they can get to cushion themselves against the negative economic impact of COVID-19. We are proud to play a small role in ensuring that startups outlive the pandemic.” Wilfred – Co-Founder at Villgro Kenya.
