Remedial Health, a Nigerian healthtech startup, has raised $1 million in pre-seed funding to modernize pharmacy operations and tackle the distribution of counterfeit and substandard pharmaceutical products. The funding round, led by Global Ventures and Ventures Platform, saw participation from Ingressive Capital, Voltron Capital, and angel investors, including Flutterwave’s Olugbenga Agboola and Victor Asemota.
The funds will also support the expansion of the company’s buy now, pay later (BNPL) services.
Building a Digital Backbone for Pharmacies
Founded in 2020 by pharmacist and software developer Samuel Okwuada alongside Victor Benjamin, Remedial Health initially operated as a private label supplier of contract-manufactured pharmaceutical products. However, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed gaps in the supply chain, prompting the startup to pivot towards a tech-driven model.The company developed a digital platform that enables pharmacies to manage operations, track inventory, and order pharmaceutical supplies directly through an app. The system also supports patient medical record storage, accounting, and reporting, making pharmacy management more seamless.“For pharmacies using our system, we ensure consistent supply by eliminating the need to source products from multiple distributors. This saves time and minimizes the risk of stockouts,” said CEO Okwuada.
Recognizing that not all pharmacies have access to computers or consistent power supply, Remedial Health also offers a mobile app and online store, ensuring accessibility for a broader range of pharmacy owners.
Combatting Counterfeit Drugs
One of Remedial Health’s key objectives is reducing the prevalence of counterfeit and substandard pharmaceutical products in Africa’s fragmented supply chain. By sourcing directly from over 100 reputable manufacturers, including global names like GSK, Pfizer, and AstraZeneca, the company guarantees the quality and authenticity of its products.The system also monitors inventory, redirecting surplus stock from low-demand areas to pharmacies facing shortages. This streamlined approach minimizes waste and ensures a more efficient distribution network.
Expanding Reach and Impact
Currently operational in six Nigerian states, Remedial Health plans to expand its footprint across the country and into additional African markets by the end of the year. The startup operates a central distribution center supported by regional hubs, enabling it to deliver orders within one hour.
To enhance logistics, Remedial Health relies on in-house and partner delivery services, with plans to integrate with a leading logistics provider for a fully automated supply chain solution.
The company also extends credit to pharmacies, allowing them to purchase inventory with minimal upfront costs. “Pharmacies can pay a deposit, sometimes as low as 20%, and settle the balance over time. For trusted partners, we even offer 100% financing,” Okwuada noted.
A Vision for Community-Based Healthcare
Remedial Health is not only focused on solving supply chain inefficiencies but also aims to bring primary healthcare closer to communities. The startup envisions neighborhood pharmacies evolving into comprehensive healthcare centers offering diagnostic services and consultations.
“These pharmacies are often within a 15-minute walk from people’s homes. By equipping them with diagnostic tools and healthcare professionals, we can transform healthcare delivery across Africa,” Okwuada emphasized.By addressing key challenges in pharmaceutical supply chains, Remedial Health joins other notable African startups like Kenya’s MyDawa, Ghana’s mPharma, and Nigeria’s DrugStoc in reshaping the continent’s healthcare landscape.
