The Gates Foundation and OpenAI have announced a joint investment of $50 million to support AI-driven healthcare interventions in Africa. The initiative, named Horizon1000, will begin in Rwanda and aims to improve health systems by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into primary care delivery.
Using AI to Expand Access to Quality Care
According to Bill Gates, Horizon1000 is designed to reach 1,000 primary health clinics and surrounding communities across multiple African countries by 2028. He described AI as a transformative tool capable of addressing health worker shortages and inadequate infrastructure, which remain major challenges in many African nations.
“In poorer countries with enormous health worker shortages and lack of health systems infrastructure, AI can be a game-changer in expanding access to quality care,” Gates said.
The project will work closely with African governments to determine the most effective ways to leverage emerging technologies to enhance healthcare delivery, streamline operations, and strengthen data-driven decision-making.
Addressing Chronic Challenges in African Healthcare
Many African countries face persistent healthcare challenges, including underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled personnel. Sub-Saharan Africa alone is estimated to be short of around six million healthcare professionals, contributing to high rates of preventable disease and child mortality.
Most countries also fall short of the Abuja Declaration’s target of allocating 15% of GDP to health, which has left systems fragile and under-resourced. Horizon1000 seeks to mitigate these gaps by using AI to support frontline healthcare workers, optimize clinic operations, and improve patient outcomes.
Gates Foundation’s Continued Commitment to Africa
This investment builds on the Gates Foundation’s long-standing presence in Africa. In 2025, the foundation marked its 25th anniversary of work on the continent and pledged a $200 billion intervention fund to be distributed over 20 years, focused on health and education. Previous initiatives, including Gavi and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, have reportedly saved over 80 million lives.
Gates emphasized the importance of human capital development: “Our foundation has an increasing commitment to Africa. We’ve been here for over 20 years, and we will continue to work side by side with you to build a healthier and more prosperous future.”
A Forward-Looking Initiative
Horizon1000 represents a strategic effort to harness AI in healthcare, improve service delivery, and strengthen resilience across African health systems. By combining technological innovation with targeted investment, the initiative aims to save lives, reduce preventable maternal and child deaths, and combat infectious diseases, reinforcing Africa’s path toward a healthier and more sustainable future.
