Hardware

Solar-powered kiosks delivering health care in Chad

Photo: Adobe Stock

April 16, 2026

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Telemedan, a startup founded in 2021 by Abakar Mahamat and Ahmed Kotoko, is addressing limited healthcare access in Chad through solar-powered medical kiosks, according to a report in the pan-African digital media outlet TechCabal. Mahamat initially explored building a mobile app to connect patients with doctors, but low smartphone usage, limited internet access and weak infrastructure made that approach impractical. Chad has roughly 0.8 physicians per 10,000 people, forcing many residents to travel long distances for care and highlighting the need for a more accessible solution.

The company developed kiosks that function as compact clinics, allowing patients to connect with doctors via video consultation while using on-site diagnostic tools. These include devices such as stethoscopes, oximeters and temperature sensors, enabling physicians to gather real-time health data remotely. Each kiosk is staffed by a trained local operator who assists patients with the equipment, while prescriptions and follow-up instructions can be printed or sent via SMS.

Telemedan's kiosks are designed to operate in challenging environments, using solar power and a mix of 4G and satellite connectivity. The units are built with low-maintenance requirements, with local operators handling minor issues and remote teams addressing software problems. The company has also begun integrating artificial intelligence tools, including systems to detect diabetic retinopathy, expanding the scope of services offered.

The business operates primarily through government and institutional partnerships, selling kiosks for about $10,000 each while keeping patient consultation costs relatively low, typically between $2 and $15. Since its launch, Telemedan has deployed 37 kiosks across 11 provinces, reaching more than 140,000 people. The company aims to expand beyond Chad, though it faces challenges related to regulation, partnerships and adapting the model to new markets.