The initiative, co-funded by Bristol Myers Squibb and spearheaded by AstraZeneca through the A. Catalyst Network aims to tackle immediate healthcare challenges while also devising strategies for fortifying resilient healthcare systems.

With participation from 12 countries and collaboration with 22 leading universities, Fuel Africa 2024 has united over 1200 students and professionals in 95 teams to tackle Africa's most pressing challenges.

Spanning from disease detection and management to enhancing healthcare accessibility and climate resilience, Fuel Africa 2024 marks a significant stride towards holistic healthcare solutions combined with environmental sustainability endeavors.

Deepak Arora, Country President of African Cluster at AstraZeneca said; "Fuel Africa 2024 embodies the spirit of innovation and collaboration that is essential for driving positive change in healthcare across Africa.

"We are proud to support initiatives that leverage technology to address critical healthcare challenges while promoting environmental sustainability."

The programme's highlights include over 30 hours of tailored learning experiences, including masterclasses, workshops, and mentoring sessions.

At the end of the virtual demo day, three pioneering teams were granted pre-seed funding and committed to ongoing mentorship, propelling their innovative solutions toward implementation.

Among the winning innovations are; Tulivu.AI: A revolutionary wearable device for expectant mothers, enabling early detection of prenatal complications, SOTE.AI: an innovative diagnostic and treatment guidance system powered by AI algorithms to combat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and MedLab Diagnostics: a groundbreaking diagnostic tool leveraging serological markers and AI for early detection of cervical cancer.

Rhea Singhla, CEO of Futurize, expressed her excitement, stating; "At Futurize, we're excited to pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable Africa.

"By integrating cutting-edge healthcare innovations with strategies to address climate challenges, Fuel Africa 2024 is laying the groundwork for positive transformation. However, our commitment doesn't cease with the programme's conclusion.

"Through the FuturizeU Incubator, we remain steadfast in nurturing these innovative projects to ensure they make the greatest impact possible.”

Looking beyond the program, participants can apply for the FuturizeU Incubator program in May 2024.

This initiative aims to nurture and support innovative projects with mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities, ensuring their maximum impact in the market and building the next generation of startups.

About Futurize

Leading the charge in sparking innovation and technological progress in Africa, Futurize Studio motivates a new generation of problem-solvers and visionaries through platforms like Fuel Africa and the FuturizeU Incubator.

As an ecosystem builder, Futurize actively fosters collaborative networks, uniting stakeholders across industries to amplify impact and drive systemic change.

These programs are designed to tackle the continent's urgent challenges, steering us toward a future where healthcare and environmental sustainability are aligned. Website: www.futurize.studio

About AstraZeneca - AstraZeneca - African Cluster

AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq: AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology.

With operations in over 100 countries, AstraZeneca's innovative medicines are utilized by millions of patients worldwide.