Aga Khan Hospital, KQ Partner to Ease Medical Travel in Africa

Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) has entered into a partnership with Kenya Airways (KQ) to make it easier for patients from across Africa to access advanced medical care in Kenya.

The partnership, signed through Kenya Airways’ healthcare division KQ Health, brings together the airline’s extensive regional flight network and AKUH’s medical expertise to streamline medical travel within the continent.

The collaboration seeks to position Kenya as a key destination for quality healthcare and strengthen its role as a regional hub for medical excellence.

Under the agreement, KQ Health will offer end-to-end logistical support for patients seeking treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital.

The services will include medical clearances before travel, in-flight medical assistance, and direct ambulance transfers from the airport to the hospital. Once in Nairobi, AKUH will provide specialised treatment in key areas such as oncology, cardiology, surgery, and critical care.

“This partnership makes it easier for patients from across Africa to access world-class healthcare without leaving the continent,” Rashid Khalani, the CEO of Aga Khan University Hospital, said.

He noted that the collaboration would not only improve access to quality healthcare but also enhance patients’ comfort during their recovery.

“When patients get treatment closer home, it means more convenient travel for them and their families, a familiar environment and culture to recover in and a sense of pride in the quality of care available at home.”

KQ CEO Allan Kilavuka said the airline was proud to play a role in bridging the gap between transport and healthcare access across Africa.

“This is an example of how aviation can directly support healthcare access. By working with Aga Khan University Hospital, we’re connecting people not just to destinations, but to essential services that can change lives.”

Medical travel has become a growing need across Africa, with many patients still relying on overseas hospitals for treatment. The two organisations said their partnership will help address this challenge by providing a safer, more affordable, and dignified alternative closer to home.

The initiative is also expected to attract patients from countries such as Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Kenya Airways operates regular flights.