Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2033

Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Size

• The Africa Point-Of-Care diagnostics market size was valued at USD 691.08 million in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 1,076.78 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the increasing prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases, rising preference for rapid testing near patients, and expanding healthcare access in underserved regions. These factors are driving demand for decentralized diagnostic solutions that deliver quick results outside traditional laboratories
• Furthermore, growing investments in portable diagnostic technologies and rising awareness of early disease detection particularly for conditions such as HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and diabetes are strengthening the uptake of POC diagnostics across clinical, primary care, and community health settings

Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Analysis

• Point-of-care diagnostics (POC), enabling rapid testing and immediate clinical decision-making near the patient, are increasingly vital components of healthcare delivery in both urban and rural settings across Africa, due to their ability to deliver fast results, reduce laboratory dependence, and improve patient outcomes
• The escalating demand for POC diagnostics is primarily fueled by the high prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases, growing awareness of early disease detection, and the need for decentralized testing in resource-limited healthcare settings
• Kenya dominated the Africa POC diagnostics market with the largest revenue share of 22.5% in 2025, characterized by improving healthcare infrastructure, strong government support for disease monitoring programs, and the presence of key diagnostic solution providers, with significant growth observed in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers
• Nigeria is expected to be the fastest growing country in the Africa POC diagnostics market during the forecast period driven by rising healthcare access, urbanization, and increasing demand for rapid and reliable diagnostic testing in both public and private healthcare facilities
• Devices segment dominated the Africa POC diagnostics market with a market share of 42.9% in 2025, driven by the growing adoption of portable diagnostic instruments in clinical and home care settings

Report Scope and Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Segmentation           

Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Trends

“Expansion of Rapid and Decentralized Testing”

• A significant and accelerating trend in the Africa POC diagnostics market is the growing adoption of portable and decentralized testing devices, allowing healthcare providers to perform rapid diagnostics outside traditional laboratories
• For instance, the GeneXpert Edge system enables clinics in Kenya and Nigeria to conduct molecular testing for tuberculosis and HIV within hours, significantly reducing turnaround time for treatment decisions
• Integration of POC devices with mobile health applications and cloud-based platforms allows real-time reporting and monitoring of disease outbreaks, improving healthcare delivery efficiency. For instance, some Abbott i-STAT devices connect to mobile apps to transmit results instantly to health authorities
• The seamless connectivity of POC diagnostics with electronic medical records and telemedicine platforms facilitates centralized monitoring and improved patient management in remote areas
• The trend towards multiplex testing, where a single device can detect multiple pathogens simultaneously, is gaining traction, enhancing diagnostic efficiency and reducing patient wait times. For instance, some SD Biosensor kits can detect malaria, dengue, and COVID-19 in a single test
• Increasing partnerships between device manufacturers and local healthcare providers are enabling wider adoption and distribution, especially in underserved rural areas. For instance, Abbott collaborates with community health programs in Nigeria to deploy mobile POC testing units
• The demand for POC diagnostics that combine speed, accuracy, and remote connectivity is growing rapidly across hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, as stakeholders increasingly prioritize timely patient care and outbreak management

Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Dynamics

Driver

“Rising Demand Due to High Disease Burden and Limited Laboratory Access”

• The increasing prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases in Africa, coupled with limited access to conventional laboratories, is a significant driver for the growing adoption of POC diagnostics
• For instance, in 2025, Abbott introduced rapid malaria and HIV testing kits in Nigeria and Kenya, targeting clinics with limited laboratory infrastructure to improve early detection and treatment
• POC diagnostics provide quick results, enabling immediate clinical decision-making and reducing delays in patient care compared to centralized laboratory testing
• Furthermore, government initiatives and donor-funded programs supporting early disease detection and monitoring are making POC diagnostics an integral component of healthcare strategies in multiple African countries
• The convenience of portable, easy-to-use diagnostic devices and the ability to perform tests at the point of care are key factors propelling market growth in hospitals, clinics, and mobile health units
• Rising private sector involvement and investment in POC diagnostics is driving technological innovation and wider market penetration. For instance, Roche and SD Biosensor are expanding device deployment through private clinic partnerships in Kenya and Uganda
• Growing awareness among patients and caregivers about the importance of early diagnosis and regular monitoring is encouraging adoption of POC solutions. For instance, community health campaigns in Ethiopia have increased demand for rapid HIV and malaria testing

Restraint/Challenge

“High Cost of Advanced Devices and Limited Skilled Workforce”

• The relatively high cost of advanced POC diagnostic devices compared to conventional laboratory testing poses a challenge to wider adoption, especially in resource-limited settings
• For instance, high-cost molecular diagnostic platforms such as GeneXpert or Cobas Liat may be unaffordable for small clinics in rural Zambia or Malawi, limiting market penetration
• A shortage of trained healthcare professionals to operate sophisticated POC instruments further hampers effective utilization in remote areas, impacting test accuracy and reliability
• While portable and user-friendly devices are becoming more available, perceptions of complexity and maintenance requirements still hinder adoption in budget-constrained healthcare facilities
• Overcoming these challenges through affordable device models, training programs, and mobile support services will be vital for sustained growth in the Africa POC diagnostics market
• Supply chain and logistical challenges in remote regions can delay device distribution and reagent availability, restricting timely testing. For instance, delivery of consumables to clinics in Chad or Central African Republic can be slow due to poor infrastructure
• Regulatory hurdles and inconsistent national guidelines across African countries can delay approvals for new POC diagnostic technologies. For instance, some devices face extended registration processes in Nigeria and Mauritania before entering the market

Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of type, platform, end user, and distribution channel.

• By Type

On the basis of type, the Africa POC diagnostics market is segmented into devices, consumables and kits, software and services, and accessories. Devices segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 42.9% in 2025, driven by the increasing adoption of portable and easy-to-use diagnostic instruments across hospitals, clinics, and rural healthcare centers. Devices such as handheld molecular diagnostic platforms and lateral flow readers are widely used for rapid testing of HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis. The dominance of devices is reinforced by their ability to provide immediate results, reducing patient wait times and improving clinical decision-making. Healthcare providers prioritize devices due to their accuracy, reliability, and capacity for integration with mobile apps or electronic medical record systems. Government and donor initiatives in countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, and Ethiopia often focus on supplying devices to improve testing coverage in underserved regions. Furthermore, devices are often considered the core component of any POC diagnostic setup, which sustains high market demand.

Consumables and Kits segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2026 to 2033, driven by rising demand for single-use test kits, reagents, and consumables that facilitate rapid and safe testing. Consumables are essential for performing multiple diagnostic assays with minimal cross-contamination, making them critical in high-volume testing centers and mobile clinics. The growth is further supported by increasing outbreaks of infectious diseases requiring large-scale testing, such as malaria, dengue, and COVID-19. Kits designed for multiplex testing or disease-specific panels are becoming more popular for field deployment. Countries such as Nigeria, Rwanda, and Zambia are rapidly adopting these consumables for national screening programs. In addition, partnerships between POC device manufacturers and local suppliers are increasing the availability and affordability of consumables, further boosting market growth.

• By Platform

On the basis of platform, the Africa POC diagnostics market is segmented into lateral flow assays / immunochromatography tests, molecular diagnostics, immunoassays, dipsticks, and microfluidics. Lateral Flow Assays / Immunochromatography Tests dominated the market with a share of 38% in 2025, owing to their simplicity, affordability, and rapid results for detecting infectious diseases. These platforms are highly preferred in resource-limited settings where laboratory infrastructure is minimal. Lateral flow tests for malaria, HIV, and COVID-19 are extensively deployed in community health centers and mobile testing units across countries such as Kenya and Ghana. Their portability, minimal training requirement, and ease of use contribute to widespread adoption in both urban and rural clinics. Governments and NGOs actively support the distribution of lateral flow tests for mass screening programs. In addition, these tests provide immediate feedback, allowing healthcare workers to make timely treatment decisions.

Molecular Diagnostics platforms are expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 11.2% from 2026 to 2033, driven by their high accuracy and ability to detect pathogens at early stages. Platforms such as GeneXpert and PCR-based devices are increasingly deployed in hospitals and reference laboratories in Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia. The growing burden of infectious diseases and emerging viral threats increases the need for precise molecular testing. These platforms also allow for multiplexing and automated reporting, improving testing efficiency in high-volume centers. Donor-funded programs and government initiatives have expanded molecular testing availability, especially for HIV, TB, and COVID-19. Furthermore, integration with digital platforms enables remote monitoring and epidemiological tracking, enhancing public health response.

• By End User

On the basis of end user, the Africa POC diagnostics market is segmented into professional diagnostic centers, home care, research laboratories, and other end users. Professional Diagnostic Centers dominated the market with a share of 45% in 2025, driven by their central role in delivering diagnostic services to hospitals, clinics, and outpatient facilities. These centers have access to a wide range of POC devices and testing kits, enabling rapid diagnosis of infectious and chronic diseases. Countries such as South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria have well-established diagnostic networks, which support high testing volumes. Professional centers benefit from trained personnel and better infrastructure, ensuring accurate results and efficient patient management. Collaboration with government health programs and NGOs also boosts testing capabilities. In addition, professional centers act as hubs for quality control and validation of POC tests before deployment to remote areas.

Home Care segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 12% from 2026 to 2033, fueled by increasing awareness of self-monitoring and convenience of at-home testing for chronic conditions such as diabetes and HIV. Home care POC tests allow patients in urban and rural settings to monitor health without visiting a clinic, improving adherence and early intervention. Countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana are seeing growing adoption of home-based test kits due to urbanization and increasing smartphone penetration. Innovations in user-friendly kits and digital reporting platforms further accelerate growth. Partnerships between device manufacturers and pharmacies or online retailers enhance access to home care POC tests. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has boosted consumer confidence in home testing, creating lasting market potential.

• By Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the Africa POC diagnostics market is segmented into direct tender and retail sales. Direct Tender dominated the market with a share of 50% in 2025, driven by large-scale procurement by governments, NGOs, and donor agencies for national screening and immunization programs. Direct tender agreements ensure bulk supply of devices, kits, and consumables at negotiated prices, reducing costs for healthcare providers. Countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, and Rwanda rely on direct tenders to supply hospitals, clinics, and mobile health units efficiently. These agreements also enable standardization of testing protocols and ensure timely replenishment of consumables. In addition, direct tenders support rapid deployment during outbreak responses, enhancing the public health impact. Strategic partnerships between suppliers and governments further strengthen market dominance.

Retail Sales segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 10.8% from 2026 to 2033, fueled by rising demand for POC devices and test kits in pharmacies, online platforms, and private clinics. Retail channels provide convenient access to diagnostic solutions for individual consumers and small clinics that cannot procure through government tenders. Countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana are experiencing growing adoption of retail POC kits due to urban population growth and rising health awareness. Increasing availability of user-friendly devices and home testing solutions further drives retail sales. Partnerships with e-commerce platforms improve distribution efficiency. Moreover, retail expansion helps reach remote areas where institutional procurement may be limited, contributing to faster market growth.

Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Regional Analysis

• Kenya dominated the Africa POC diagnostics market with the largest revenue share of 22.5% in 2025, characterized by improving healthcare infrastructure, strong government support for disease monitoring programs, and the presence of key diagnostic solution providers, with significant growth observed in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers
• Healthcare providers in Kenya highly value the convenience, portability, and speed of point-of-care diagnostics, which allow for immediate clinical decision-making in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers
• This widespread adoption is further supported by donor-funded programs, NGO partnerships, and a growing focus on expanding healthcare access in rural and underserved regions, establishing POC diagnostics as a preferred solution for timely detection and management of infectious and chronic diseases

The Kenya Africa Point‑Of‑Care Diagnostics Market Insight

The Kenya Africa Point‑Of‑Care diagnostics market captured the largest revenue share of 22.5% in 2025, fueled by widespread deployment of rapid testing programs for HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, along with improving healthcare infrastructure. Healthcare providers increasingly prioritize portable and easy-to-use POC devices for immediate clinical decision-making in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. Government initiatives, donor-funded programs, and NGO partnerships further drive market adoption, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The integration of digital reporting platforms and mobile health applications enhances data management and outbreak monitoring. Rising awareness among healthcare workers and patients about early detection and timely treatment is boosting demand for reliable POC solutions. In addition, public-private collaborations are expanding access to high-quality diagnostic kits and devices, establishing Kenya as the regional leader in POC diagnostics.

Nigeria Africa Point‑Of‑Care Diagnostics Market Insight

The Nigeria Africa Point‑Of‑Care diagnostics market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by rapid urbanization, increased healthcare access, and rising demand for timely disease detection. Portable POC devices and test kits are increasingly deployed across hospitals, clinics, and mobile health units to combat infectious diseases such as malaria, HIV, and COVID-19. Government programs and donor-funded initiatives support widespread testing campaigns, improving adoption rates. Private healthcare providers are increasingly integrating POC diagnostics into routine care, enhancing convenience and efficiency for patients. Mobile health technologies and digital platforms are enabling real-time reporting and remote patient management, further accelerating market growth. The combination of rising health awareness and expanding infrastructure positions Nigeria as a key growth market in Africa.

Uganda Africa Point‑Of‑Care Diagnostics Market Insight

The Uganda Africa Point‑Of‑Care diagnostics market is witnessing steady growth, driven by government initiatives targeting HIV, malaria, and TB control, alongside expanding rural healthcare access. POC devices are increasingly deployed in hospitals, clinics, and community health programs, providing immediate results that support timely treatment decisions. International donor programs and NGO partnerships facilitate the supply of test kits and devices to underserved regions. Awareness campaigns on early detection and preventive healthcare further stimulate adoption. Integration with mobile reporting platforms enhances tracking and data collection for national health programs. Rising investment in affordable diagnostic technologies and training of local healthcare personnel is strengthening market penetration.

Ghana Africa Point‑Of‑Care Diagnostics Market Insight

The Ghana Africa Point‑Of‑Care diagnostics market is expected to grow at a notable CAGR, driven by the rising burden of infectious diseases and increased government funding for decentralized testing programs. POC devices and kits are widely used in hospitals, clinics, and community outreach programs, improving access to rapid diagnostics. The government’s commitment to expanding healthcare infrastructure and implementing nationwide screening programs supports market growth. Collaboration with private diagnostic centers and NGOs ensures consistent supply of consumables and training for healthcare staff. Adoption of digital reporting tools for real-time monitoring and patient management is enhancing market efficiency. Increasing consumer awareness of early diagnosis benefits is also boosting the demand for home care and community-based POC testing solutions.

Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market Share

The Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Abbott (U.S.)
• QuidelOrtho Corporation (U.S.)
• BD (U.S.)
• BIOMÉRIEUX (France)
• EKF Diagnostics Holdings plc (U.K.)
• SD Biosensor, Inc. (South Korea)
• Instrumentation Laboratory Company (U.S.)
• Trinity Biotech plc (Ireland)
• Sekisui Diagnostics, LLC (U.S.)
• Werfen (Spain)
• ACON Laboratories, Inc. (U.S.)
• Beckman Coulter, Inc. (U.S.)
• Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (U.S.)
• Nipro Diagnostics, Inc. (Japan)
• Chembio Diagnostics, Inc. (U.S.)
• Meridian Bioscience, Inc. (U.S.)
• LumiraDx Ltd (U.K.)
• Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany)
• Nova Biomedical Corporation (U.S.)

What are the Recent Developments in Africa Point-Of-Care Diagnostics Market?

• In May 2025, WHO and the Medicines Patent Pool signed a sublicensing agreement with Codix Bio to transfer rapid diagnostic test (RDT) technology to Nigeria, allowing Codix to develop and manufacture highly sensitive RDTs for HIV and other diseases locally and support equitable access to essential diagnostics across Africa
• In February 2025, Uganda’s Ministry of Health launched the country’s first locally produced malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits developed by Microhaem Scientifics, aimed at reducing dependence on imported kits, lowering costs, and improving access to quality diagnostics nationwide
• In December 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the addition of an African packaging and shipping site for a WHO-prequalified HIV rapid test, enabling governments and international partners to procure quality-assured HIV diagnostics manufactured and packaged in Nigeria, strengthening local diagnostic capacity and pandemic preparedness
• In April 2024, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) launched two major initiatives the Integrated Genomic Surveillance and Data Sharing Platform (IGS) and Integrated Genomic Surveillance for Outbreak Detection (DETECT) to strengthen molecular diagnostics and genomic surveillance capacity across African Union member states, enhancing early detection and response to outbreaks and integrating advanced POC diagnostic capabilities into public health systems
• In November 2021, Chembio Diagnostics received approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) for its DPP SARS-CoV-2 Antigen point-of-care test, authorizing its use in South Africa to expand rapid COVID-19 testing capabilities during the pandemic

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