Boehringer Ingelheim has announced an investment in Kasha Global through its Social Engagement Fund, aiming to improve healthcare access in Africa, particularly for women. The funding supports Kasha’s hybrid distribution model, which blends online and offline channels to deliver pharmaceuticals and health products to underserved communities.

With an estimated 52% of Africans unable to access essential healthcare, Kasha is working to close that gap through a model that prioritises accessibility, trust and user choice. The platform has a specific focus on reaching low-income populations and advancing women’s health and education.

“Kasha is excited to partner with Boehringer in our shared mission of realizing last mile access to health products for the mass market,” said Joanna Bichsel, Founder and CEO of Kasha Global. “With Boehringer’s expertise in creating innovative healthcare solutions, and Kasha’s focus on customer-centered access, choice and trust, I look forward to a long-term partnership that wins at all levels.”

The move is part of Boehringer’s broader aim to improve the lives of 50 million people by 2030. Through its Social Engagement Fund, the pharmaceutical company supports ventures that are creating scalable and sustainable healthcare solutions in local markets.

Kasha is also tackling the widespread issue of fake or substandard medicines in the region. With reports showing that up to 22.6% of medications in Africa fall below standard, contributing to around 500,000 deaths each year in sub-Saharan Africa, the company’s focus on reliable pharmaceutical delivery aims to address both safety and accessibility concerns.