Zipline launches operations in Kaduna, Nigeria
Drone company Zipline has begun medical logistics deliveries to remote hospitals and medical facilities in Kaduna State, Nigeria
The launch of the new drone delivery network is the culmination of two years of work in Kaduna – the state government signed an initial agreement with Zipline to establish the network in 2021, with the company opening its first distribution state in Kaduna State on 3 June 2022.
The drones are capable of delivering a range of medical products, including blood products, vaccines, and other common medicines. The new delivery network is expected to offer substantial reductions in delivery times and costs, and a corresponding improvement in health across the state.
“One of the reasons for Zipline’s emergence in Kaduna was insecurity and unavailability of storage facilities for thermolabile medications like vaccines,” said Samuel Noma, Zipline’s Operations Manager for Nigeria, speaking to the New Telegraph newspaper.
“Zipline reduces delays in drugs and vaccine deliveries to rural areas, where staff had to go long miles to buy medical supplies, leaving patients unattended to or waiting for service due to unavailability,” added Noma.