Zambia has launched a nationwide pilot program using artificial intelligence and remote diagnostic tools to enhance access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas.
The initiative is led by the Ministry of Technology and Science in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Finnish healthtech firm 73Health Global, Pentatech Ltd, and with support from the Government of Finland and Paratus Zambia, official distributor of Starlink.
Remote diagnostic tools and AI medication analysis deployed in health posts
The pilot project is being rolled out across 20 health posts in 10 provinces, bringing two advanced technologies to the forefront.
First is the remote health diagnostic device by Finland-based 73Health Global, already in use in Finland, China, and Canada.
The second is Zambia’s own Larry RX AI, a pharmacological analysis tool that checks drug-to-drug interactions and improves treatment safety.
73Health Global Chairman Yaakko Seppälä described the company’s mission as improving access to affordable, high-quality care through cutting-edge tech.
“Patients in remote and underserved communities will be able to receive timely, high-quality care without the need for in-person consultations,” he said.
Finland, Zambia partnership drives healthcare innovation
Finland’s Ambassador to Zambia, Saana Halinen, praised the partnership and noted Finland’s longstanding support for development initiatives in Zambia.
She highlighted Finland’s global reputation as an innovation hub, citing its investments in education, research, and a robust digital infrastructure.
This pilot strengthens the two countries’ focus on leveraging private sector innovation to create scalable, impactful solutions.
It’s the latest of several joint initiatives driven by Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, who has championed the use of digital tools to solve pressing local problems.
AI and telehealth set to improve access and cut costs
Speaking at the launch event, Minister Mutati reaffirmed that healthcare must be a right for all Zambians, not a privilege.
He said AI and telehealth can solve critical access gaps by enabling one doctor to reach several locations at once. “Technology lets us do more with less,” he explained.
Mutati also thanked Finland and partners for supporting a solution that offers practical, on-the-ground impact.
With technologies like Larry RX AI and remote diagnostics, Zambia is positioning itself as a model for digital health innovation in Africa.
The pilot is expected to pave the way for future expansions, helping Zambia scale quality healthcare in a cost-effective and inclusive manner.