Roche Africa’s recent press day was more than just an industry event—it was a powerful conversation about the future of healthcare on the continent. Bringing together experts, advocates, and community leaders, the event underscored Roche’s mission to improve healthcare access and empower local communities. From visiting the Roche plant to engaging with Unjani Clinics and Nursepreneurs, attendees witnessed firsthand how innovative healthcare solutions are transforming lives.
A highlight of the day was the presence of Sophie Ndaba, a celebrated actress and wellness advocate, who emceed the event. Living with diabetes herself, Sophie’s role in leading discussions on wellness and accessible healthcare was particularly fitting. Her personal journey reinforced the event’s message—that proactive healthcare and community-driven solutions are crucial in tackling Africa’s most pressing health challenges.
Unjani Clinics and the Power of Nursepreneurs
One of the standout moments of the press day was the interaction with Unjani Clinics—a network of nurse-led, community-based clinics that are reshaping primary healthcare in South Africa. These clinics, run by Nursepreneurs, provide essential medical services in underserved areas, ensuring that people who might otherwise struggle to access healthcare can receive timely treatment and screenings.
The Nursepreneurs behind these clinics are more than just healthcare professionals; they are business owners, leaders, and changemakers in their communities. They are proving that sustainable healthcare models can thrive when local professionals are empowered to lead. Their work aligns with Roche’s broader vision—leveraging public-private partnerships to build a healthcare system that works for everyone.
Roche’s Commitment to Transforming Healthcare
As a global leader in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, Roche is playing a pivotal role in healthcare transformation across Africa. During the visit to the Roche plant, attendees saw how the company is driving innovation in diagnostics, treatment, and healthcare technology. Roche’s initiatives, such as their partnerships with African governments and health organizations, are making strides in areas like breast cancer treatment, hepatitis elimination, and early disease detection.
For example, Roche’s partnership in Egypt has significantly contributed to the fight against Hepatitis C. By working alongside the Egyptian Ministry of Health, Roche helped screen over 60 million people and provided treatment for 4 million residents, demonstrating how large-scale collaboration can lead to tangible healthcare improvements
Similarly, the Africa Breast Cancer Ambition (ABCA) is one of Roche’s key initiatives aimed at improving breast cancer survival rates on the continent. With breast cancer cases in Africa expected to double by 2040, Roche is working to improve early detection, diagnosis, and treatment accessibility, aiming for an 80% five-year survival rate for African women by 2030
A Collaborative Approach to Healthcare
Throughout the event, various speakers reinforced the importance of collaboration in improving Africa’s healthcare landscape. Merilynn Steenkamp, General Manager for Roche Diagnostics Southern Africa, highlighted how strategic partnerships are essential for increasing access to diagnostic technology. General Manager for Roche Diagnostics Southern Africa, highlighted how strategic partnerships are essential for increasing access to diagnostic technology. Meanwhile, Dr. Paul Chilwesa, Head of Policy and Population Health at Roche Pharma Africa, emphasized the need for data-driven strategies to ensure equitable cancer care across the continent.
The event was not just about discussions—it was a call to action. Roche’s work with Unjani Clinics, Nursepreneurs, and government health agencies is proof that impactful change is possible when corporate innovation meets community empowerment.
A Future of Wellness and Accessibility
Sophie Ndaba’s presence brought a personal and relatable touch to the event, reminding everyone that healthcare is not just about medicine—it’s about wellness, accessibility, and quality of life. As someone managing diabetes while advocating for better healthcare, she echoed the event’s key message: health solutions should be accessible, sustainable, and centered around the people they serve.
The Roche Africa Press Day was more than an industry briefing—it was an inspiring showcase of what’s possible when innovation meets community-driven solutions. From Unjani Clinics to the Roche plant and the partnerships driving change, the event reinforced a hopeful vision for the future of healthcare in Africa—one where no one is left behind.
