Economic growth in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania coupled with substantial donor funding is essentially driving the development and growth of the ultrasound markets in these countries.

Economic growth in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania coupled with substantial donor funding targeted at healthcare improvement, has motivated the governments of these four countries to refurbish and improve their healthcare sectors. This is essentially driving the development and growth of the ultrasound markets in these countries.

New analysis from growth consulting company Frost & Sullivan, Key Sub-Saharan Africa Ultrasound Markets, finds that the market earned revenues of $26.6m in 2006 and estimates this to reach $47.2m in 2012.

"The development of ultrasound technologies is driving the private South African market," notes Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Gavin Chait. "As the benefits of government investment are felt in the public healthcare sector in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania, technology development is likely to play an increasingly important role in driving the ultrasound markets."

The shortage of qualified radiologists and sonographers, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania, is inhibiting the uptake of new ultrasound systems. This is compounded by the poor training received by current students and is likely to further impact market growth in the short and medium term. Despite potential demand for additional systems in hospitals and clinics because of higher patient volumes, providers are not in a position to purchase new equipment, due to human resource shortages and poor user capabilities.

"Ultrasound manufacturers and distributors in sub-Saharan Africa must provide funding and fellowships to medical students to drive the increased uptake of students into the medical profession in Africa," recommends Chait. "Similarly, they can enhance the skills of currently practicing ultrasound end users through the provision of training courses."

Although the ultrasound markets in sub-Saharan Africa are prevented from achieving maximum growth by the current poor status of healthcare on the continent, growth can significantly improve as the real benefits of increased investment and economic growth start to materialise in the short to medium term.