Until recently, East Africa was too poor to attract substantial foreign interest apart from donor funding. There are just too many opportunities elsewhere for global healthcare players. But this is changing.

Now the IFC is partnering with more commercial players, such as Abraaj and Ciel, to invest in the fragmented but extensive private sector.

Local groups like AAR, Clinic Africa and IMG are highlighting the potential to attract investment for different for-profit healthcare models reaching a growing middle class. The largest group, AAR, has earmarked over $100m for  expansion. Small standalone facilities have transformed into permanent networks of integrated care, serving an IT-literate population. Meanwhile, changes in the regulatory framework have made it easier for local and foreign companies to get licenses and set up branches without restrictions.

Find out more and read our indepth report on the region.