Entrepreneurship is not a child’s play. It is even more demanding and painstaking if you are venturing into Nigeria’s health sector. The health sector requires urgent attention. In fact, the government needs to declare a state of emergency. But we know this is not presently on the government’s agenda when even Mr President won’t allow himself to be treated in a Nigerian hospital. Amidst this, a startup named Mediosa-which just launched recently-is playing its own role to bring health care to Nigerians.
How is Mediosa doing this? Well, we had an exclusive interview with the CEO of Mediosa, Michael Anapuwa who answered this question and more.
Tell Us about yourself?
I am Michael Anapuwa, CEO of Mediosa. I started Mediosa with Olugbade Opeyemi and Egunleti Ayorinde in April 2017.
What is Mediosa all about?
Mediosa is a platform where people can discover prices and book laboratory tests and health packages. A trained professional is then assigned to each person after each booking to collect their samples(blood and urine) at any location and time of their choosing. The sample collected is delivered to a partner laboratory after which result is delivered within 24 to 48 hours. Our primary focus is on preventive healthcare. In Nigeria, people would rather take their vehicles to their mechanic every month than take care of their health. Some believe that once they pray, they’ll be alright. While prayer is important, going for medical checkups once or twice a year will help detect or prevent diseases or illnesses that will end up costing people millions of naira or even death. Early detection is key and prevention is always better than cure.
What motivated you to establish Mediosa?
I needed to go for a medical checkup some years ago but found it very difficult because there was no easy way of booking tests. After spending some time in the health sector, I realized that the problems existing were even more. That was when I decided to work on a solution that will most likely solve these issues. I was lucky enough to get people who are also interested in solving those problems.
What was starting like and how were you able to secure funds to set the business rolling?
Starting up was very difficult and is still is. Building something new was even more difficult than I expected. We are currently bootstrapping. As with every other startup, raising funds in Africa is always an issue but we are more focused on building at this stage.
How will you describe your entrepreneurship experience so far?
I’ve had a bitter-sweet experience so far. Doing what I love and enjoy is one of the sweet experiences but I’ve had days where I had to question myself why I am doing this. But the thought of helping people even on a larger scale always brings me back. Making money is important but helping people live a healthier life is more important.
What do you consider the gains and the challenges of being an entrepreneur?
Entrepreneurship has so many gains such as being your own boss and if you’re lucky enough, making huge sums of money but the challenges are enormous and entrepreneurship is very hard. If you are not so lucky enough, you’ll be the web developer, accountant and graphics designer. You might end up handling even more roles.
Advice for young Nigerians who are considering going into entrepreneurship?
Start as early as you can. If possible, start now. As you’re starting, get mentors to work with you and be mentally ready to face the challenges entrepreneurship brings. You must also be ready to learn new skills.
