(Ecofin Agency) - Africa Healthcare Network (AHN), which operates one of the largest chains of renal care and dialysis centers in East Africa, will receive the first disbursement of a $5 million loan from the Development Finance Corporation (DFC). The beneficiary, which has about 18 centers in Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, plans to develop and operate additional centers throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

"This investment in AHN will expand access to health care throughout sub-Saharan Africa, through the operation of vital dialysis centers," said Algene Sajery, vice president of the Office of External Affairs at DFC.

AHN unveiled in 2019 its plan to open more than 100 centers over the next five years on the continent. In March that year, the healthcare operator had raised a Series A financing to fund its activities in Tanzania, Kenya, but also West Africa. It notably benefited at that time from the support of venture capitalist Polaris Partners.

DFC estimates that there are more than one million patients in sub-Saharan Africa who need dialysis care. 

Chamberline Moko