This archive report was first published on 18 November 2019.
LifeBank, a pioneering medical startup from Nigeria, has made history by launching drone deliveries in Ethiopia. This innovative move aims to increase efficiency and save lives in remote areas.
On the same night, LifeBank was declared the winner of the prestigious Jack Ma Foundation's Africa Netpreneur Prize Initiative, taking home a $250,000 prize. The initiative, launched by Jack Ma in 2017, aims to support and inspire African entrepreneurs building a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
LifeBank's drone deliveries present an exciting opportunity to reach marginalized communities in Africa. The company has mastered the delivery of essential medical products using motorcycles and boats, but drones offer a new level of efficiency and reach.
“We are proud to be the first African-led company to execute Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights for healthcare logistics,” LifeBank announced on Twitter. “Drones present an exciting opportunity to reach the most vulnerable people living in the most remote areas of the world with lifesaving medical supplies.”
LifeBank's founder and CEO, Temie Giwa-Tubosun, was advised by Jack Ma to focus on fulfilling the Nigerian market before expanding across Africa. Ma told Giwa-Tubosun, “Win local first, but have a global vision. Stay focused, do not run too fast and don’t worry about the competitors.”
LifeBank's achievement is a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa. The company's commitment to improving healthcare logistics will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the lives of millions of people across the continent.
