Algeria/ HealthTech and PolluTech: Innovation Serving Health and the Environment

By Hakima Laouli

On October 28, innovation took center stage during the WaterTech Meet-Up, organized by Medafco and the ALINOV Academy in Tipaza. This event, which followed an intensive Bootcamp dedicated to innovative solutions for water management, left a lasting impression thanks to its rigorous organization and promising outcomes. The 42 participants, mostly from academic institutions, worked tirelessly to refine their ideas and explore practical approaches. These initiatives showcased the full potential of young Algerian talent when provided with structured support.

Building on this initial success, the two partners are renewing the experience with the HealthTech and PolluTech Meet-Up, scheduled to take place in person and on Zoom on November 25, once again in Tipaza. This Meet-Up marks the culmination of an intensive Bootcamp, which began on November 23. Over three days, participants refined their project ideas. This targeted training guided them in developing practical solutions in the strategic fields of HealthTech and PolluTech, with the goal of fostering the emergence of promising startups.

It is worth noting that the three themes (WaterTech, HealthTech, and PolluTech) are part of the broader MercyTech program, launched by Medafco and ALINOV last May in Algiers. Four other themes under this program are planned for the coming months, underscoring a sustained commitment to technological innovation for a sustainable future.

The HealthTech Meet-Up addresses critical issues to transform Algeria's healthcare system. Discussions focus on the digitalization of services, improving access to and management of healthcare, and the use of telemedicine as a solution for rural areas. The optimization of hospital infrastructure and support for local innovations complement these key areas.

Moderated by Dr. Bilal Yalaoui, a digital transformation expert, the event brings together renowned speakers, including Ms. Farah Bouras, a promoter of digital health innovation; Prof. Farid Naït Abdesselam, a pioneer in telemedicine; Dr. Toufik Hamadache, a specialist in hospital management; and Dr. Nabil Mostefa, the creator of the eTabib platform. Each speaker shares concrete pathways to modernize the sector, reduce inequalities, and encourage startups to develop solutions tailored to the Algerian context.

The PolluTech Meet-Up tackles Algeria's major environmental challenges, including air and water pollution and the inefficient management of waste, which significantly affect public health and the ecosystem. Discussions explore concrete solutions, such as the use of technology to reduce pollutant emissions, wastewater treatment and reuse, and waste recovery through a circular economy approach.

Citizen engagement is also addressed to promote responsible practices. Moderated by Karim Ouamane, an expert in sustainable development, the event brings together specialists such as Prof. Krim Louhab, who proposes wastewater treatment solutions; Ms. Besma Belbedjaoui, who advocates for citizen engagement; Walid Hanifi, who presents innovations for hazardous waste; and Walid Hadjadj, who explores GreenTech opportunities. This gathering highlights the importance of sustainable approaches to address environmental issues.

H.L.