In Good Health
As the summer of 2020 draws to a close, this issue of Africa Outlook is packed full of examples of companies demonstrating their resilience through what continues to be an extraordinary time.
This edition’s cover story hones in on the workings of a globally famous hospital in South Africa that has been at the frontline of the country’s ongoing fight against COVID-19.
Situated in the Western Cape, Groote Schuur Hospital was where Dr Christiaan Barnard performed the world’s first human to human heart transplant in 1967, arguably its most recognisable accolade. Fast-forward to today, and the hospital continues to develop its services and patient care, its CEO Dr Bhavna Patel offering exclusive insight into the latest goings on and plans for the future.
“For me, building on that innovative spirit, cultivating and nurturing an environment of supporting new thinking and being open to ideas makes the hospital an exciting place to work,” Patel tells us.
“Quality is never compromised, but innovative ideas, defined as anything that is new or different and that will improve the care that we offer our patients, are always supported. Hence our vision statement of ‘Leading Innovative Healthcare’.”
In an in-depth report, we examine Groote Schuur’s inspirational legacy as well as Patel’s plans to continue innovating and enhancing the patient experience.
In Tanzania, Serengeti Breweries Limited prides itself on producing and distributing leading beverage brands up and down the country. We caught up with Mark Ocitti, Managing Director, to see how the company is keeping up with ever-changing consumer tastes and supporting local enterprise.
“The acquisition in 2010 prompted increased investment in international quality standards, leading to increased job opportunities for the people of Tanzania and more revenue contribution to the government,” Ocitti says, commenting on the investment made by global giant Diageo.
“The company currently employs over 700 staff both directly and indirectly. Further, we source 70 percent of our beer raw materials from a network of 400 local farmers – growers of barley, sorghum and maize.”
Elsewhere in this busy issue, we explore the economic ramifications of coronavirus with Absa Bank, while renewable energy expert Wartsila gives us a flavour of its ongoing projects on the continent.
Other exclusive interviews featured in this edition include conversations with South Africa’s Polmed insurance scheme, PEP Clothing, Royal Crown Packaging, eHealth Africa, Curo Fund Services and DP World Maputo.
Enjoy the read!