Nigerian Startup Field Tackles Maternal Mortality With $11M Boost

Nigerian e-health startup, Field, has unveiled a new service aimed at addressing Africa’s maternal mortality crisis.

Backed by a $11 million investment from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Field’s initiative focuses on emerging therapies for maternal, newborn, and child health as well as improving nutrition across the continent.

Helping healthcare access

Co-founded in 2015 by Michael Moreland, Justin Lorenzon, and Peter Bunor, Field has already made significant strides in transforming healthcare delivery through its pharmaceutical supply chain solutions, operating in Nigeria and Kenya. 

The company has supported over 800 million health interventions, targeting critical areas like HIV, tuberculosis, and family planning. 

With its new initiative, Field aims to provide private and public healthcare providers with a streamlined route to market for the latest therapies and medical technologies.

Leveraging Technology to Improve Healthcare Access

Field’s new service integrates its proprietary data-driven technology with its distribution and financing network, currently supporting over 40,000 healthcare providers. 

This initiative includes a comprehensive digitization effort for healthcare facilities, particularly those in underserved regions, and offers financing options to strengthen operations.

By providing last-mile delivery services and installing pharmaceutical-grade refrigeration, Field is working to enhance day-to-day medical services, particularly in maternal health.

“This is public health powered by technology,” said Field’s founder and CEO, Michael Moreland, according to Disrupt Africa.

“We believe health technology companies should drive coalitions between private and public entities, and today’s launch is a reflection of Field’s commitment to that vision.”

Coalition for Maternal Health

In addition to technical upgrades, Field’s initiative includes the formation of a coalition comprising governments, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and other stakeholders. 

This partnership aims to develop one of the most ambitious maternal health programs in Africa to date, focused on reducing maternal mortality through enhanced access to medical treatments and better healthcare infrastructure.

Feature Image Credit: Disrupt Africa