KENYA and Rwanda are emerging as Africa’s top innovators in drone technology, leveraging unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to transform key sectors, from healthcare to agriculture. As the industry expands, experts predict a surge in job creation and technological advancements across the continent.
Drones transforming healthcare and agriculture
Drones have already revolutionised healthcare delivery in Rwanda, where they are used to transport blood and medical supplies to remote hospitals. The country first deployed UAVs during the Covid-19 pandemic in collaboration with US firm Zipline, drastically reducing delivery times from hours to minutes.
‘We’ve seen a lot of improvement in healthcare delivery, thanks to drones,’ said Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister for Information and Communication Technology. ‘It used to take three hours to deliver blood; now, it takes just 26 minutes.’
Inspired by Rwanda’s success, Ghana has also adopted Zipline’s drone technology for medical logistics.
Meanwhile, African drone companies such as Nigeria’s Zenvus, Zambia’s i-Drone Services, and Rwanda’s Charis UAS are developing homegrown UAV solutions tailored to the continent’s needs. Kenya alone has over 300 licensed drone operators, highlighting the industry’s rapid growth.
Kenya’s big bet on drone innovation
Kenya is positioning itself as a hub for drone technology, with authorities actively supporting the sector. The Kenya Space Agency and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority are working with Airbus subsidiary AALTO to establish a cutting-edge drone facility in Laikipia. This site will serve as a launch base for Zephyr drones, solar-powered UAVs capable of long-duration flights in the stratosphere.
‘Kenya is a high-tech, green economic pioneer in Africa that is highly attractive for foreign direct investment,’ said Tom Guilfoy, Vice President of AALTO Port in Kenya.
Additionally, Konza Technopolis, Kenya’s flagship innovation hub, is serving as a test site for new drone technologies. In 2024, it hosted the Elevate Africa UAS Summit to explore the future of UAVs in Africa.
A drone-powered future for Africa
According to the World Bank, Africa’s drone industry is on track to generate over 200,000 jobs by 2030. Experts believe drones will help the continent leapfrog infrastructure challenges, much like mobile phones revolutionised telecommunications.
‘Africa is on the cusp of a drone revolution,’ said Mercy Makau, founder of Kenya’s Young Aviators Club.
With continued investment and regulatory support, Kenya and Rwanda are set to lead Africa’s drone revolution, shaping the future of transport, communication, and development.
