AfriMedico is an NGO working under the motto "Health and smiles for everyone in Africa." It uses Japan's "okigusuri" system to deliver medicines to rural areas where healthcare is hard to reach.
In many parts of Africa, medical resources are scarce. Hospitals and pharmacies are far away, waiting times are long and fees are high, so illnesses can become severe. Under okigusuri, a basic set of medicines is kept at homes, schools and other places, and users pay only for what they use. Setting up the medicine box is reported to be free of charge.
Beyond the okigusuri program, AfriMedico runs medical education through events and seminars in Africa, joint research with Muhimbili University in Tanzania, seminars and study sessions in Japan, and new ventures whose profits are returned to the okigusuri program in Africa.
Key points
- A modern take on Japan's Edo-period okigusuri system, brought to Africa
- Goes beyond delivering medicine, with education on using it correctly
- Joint research with a Tanzanian university, and annual activity reports published
Why this organization's work stands out
Applying traditional Japanese know-how to a healthcare challenge overseas is a distinctive approach. Combining medicine delivery with education and research makes the work a useful reference.
There are several ways to get involved, from donating to joining as a member or collaborating as a company. Published activity reports and financial statements are also reassuring for those considering support.
Editor's comment
It is inspiring to see a familiar household system put to use in Africa, and it shows how broad the ideas in international cooperation can be.
Details on the activities and how to take part are on the official website. Please take a look.