What if technology could ensure that life-saving medicines reach even the most remote corners of Africa? That’s the question driving Field Intelligence, a company co-founded by Peter Bunor Jr. Innovation Village spoke with Bunor to explore how his company is transforming healthcare delivery across the continent, with a particular focus on maternal health and their bold vision for the future.
To achieve this, Field Intelligence has spent years building a robust and reliable network. Imagine a world where a community health worker in rural Kenya can reliably access the same essential medicines as a doctor in a bustling city hospital — this is the power of the network Field Intelligence has created. Since 2015, they’ve been quietly connecting 40,000 healthcare providers across Nigeria and Kenya, ensuring life-saving medications reach even the most remote areas.
“It’s been a journey of dedication, hard work, and cutting-edge technology,” says co-founder Peter Bunor Jr. While their impact is undeniable, Field Intelligence has flown somewhat under the radar in the broader tech world. Their secret weapon? A unique blend of technological innovation, deep understanding of pharmaceutical supply chains, and intimate knowledge of the African healthcare landscape.
This is evident in their “offline-first” approach. Recognising the connectivity challenges across the continent, Field Intelligence designed ERP control towers that empower healthcare workers even in areas with limited internet access. This commitment to accessibility has earned them prequalification from the WHO for Health Logistics Management Information Systems, a testament to their global standards.
But technology is only part of the story. Field Intelligence tackles complex challenges head-on, working with governments, private sector players, and international development partners to navigate the intricacies of the African healthcare system. Their focus on maternal mortality, a critical issue in the region, exemplifies this commitment.
“Nigeria has the highest rate of maternal mortality in the world,” Bunor states, underscoring the urgency of their work. With a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Field Intelligence is leveraging its vast network to introduce groundbreaking maternal health commodities to Nigeria and Kenya, offering a lifeline to countless women.
Their flagship product, Field Supply, is a SaaS control tower used by the Nigerian government to manage the distribution of essential medicines within the public health system. And through Shelf Life, their comprehensive supply chain service, they combine finance, technology, and physical commodity movement to meet the diverse needs of their clients.
Collaboration is woven into the fabric of Field Intelligence. Bunor emphasizes the importance of partnerships with government agencies and organizations like the Gates Foundation, highlighting the risk mitigation, valuable expertise, and access to a global network these collaborations bring.
Building a company capable of tackling such complex challenges requires a dedicated and talented team. Bunor stresses the importance of curiosity, honesty, open communication, and continuous learning within Field Intelligence. “It’s like learning to walk and running at the same time,” he says of the challenge of building a company and a team simultaneously.
Looking towards the future, Bunor envisions Field Intelligence as a driving force in revolutionizing healthcare access across Africa. This means expanding into new markets, forging new partnerships, and continuing to develop innovative solutions that address the continent’s unique challenges. “We want to be the gateway for life-saving commodities in Africa,” he asserts, “ensuring that everyone, everywhere has the care they deserve.”
Field Intelligence’s work is a powerful testament to the impact technology, innovation, and collaboration can have in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Their dedication to transforming healthcare in Africa is more than a business strategy; it’s a commitment to a healthier, more equitable future for millions. By connecting the unconnected and empowering healthcare providers, Field Intelligence is not just delivering medicine; they are delivering hope.
