A Strategic Acquisition in African Healthcare
A French health insurance company with notable backing from footballer Kylian Mbappé has completed the acquisition of Tanel, a digital health startup based in Senegal. The deal marks an exit for Tanel’s founders and investors, including Ventures Platform and AAIC Investment.
Addressing Healthcare Fragmentation in Africa
Tanel was launched in 2021 to tackle inefficiencies in employee health coverage systems across Francophone Africa. By providing digital tools for businesses to manage benefits while offering simpler access to care for employees, Tanel aims to streamline a traditionally fragmented process.
Operating in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, the company currently serves approximately 70,000 members through over 400 companies, connecting them to a network of more than 1,200 pharmacies and healthcare providers.
Lessons from Building on the Ground
Founders Mouhamed Ndoye Alan and Makhtar Diop reflect on their five-year journey:
- Market proximity: Being close to customers in Senegal provided invaluable insights into specific challenges facing Francophone African markets.
- Unit economics as a guide: The founders prioritized data-driven decision-making, refusing to compromise on financial sustainability even when faced with compelling alternative narratives.
- The importance of trust: In markets where digital adoption may be slower, building trust through relationships proved more effective than relying solely on marketing efforts.
Building Healthcare Infrastructure for the Long Term
The founders emphasized that creating healthcare solutions in emerging markets requires patience and a focus on sustainable value rather than short-term gains. Their experience underscores the need to build infrastructure with an eye toward longevity, especially in sectors where systems are still evolving.