AI-powered MRI scanners revolutionizing healthcare in Kenya

Technological advancements in medical imaging are significantly transforming healthcare services across Kenya, experts have said.

They note that the latest generation of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines, now enhanced with Artificial Intelligence (AI), are speeding up scan times, improving patient comfort, and increasing diagnostic accuracy through clearer and more detailed imaging.

Led by Dr Daniel Somba, the Managing Director and Chief Radiologist at MIC Imaging Center in Thika, the experts emphasised that AI-driven imaging technology is elevating diagnostic confidence and enhancing treatment planning.

“MRI scanners have been transformative for healthcare, helping doctors diagnose a wide range of conditions non-invasively. This new low-field technology makes MRI scans easier, faster, and more affordable, enabling more patients to access quality care while easing the burden on healthcare systems,” said Dr. Somba.

He spoke during the unveiling of a new 72-channel MRI scanner at the facility — the first of its kind in the region — a milestone expected to bring relief to residents of central Kenya who have long struggled with limited access to advanced imaging services.

The new scanner features stronger magnetic fields that produce higher-resolution images, enabling doctors to detect smaller and more complex abnormalities, including in neurological and joint cases.

Highly sensitive and radiation-free, the machine is safe for patients of all ages, including children. Scans take only a few minutes and can be repeated as often as necessary to monitor disease progression.

Access to MRI services in Kenya remains limited and highly centralised. The country has just about 50 MRI scanners — roughly one per million people — with most concentrated in Nairobi and a few major towns.

Dr Somba noted that rural areas, where nearly 70% of Kenyans live, remain severely underserved. The shortage of specialists compounds the challenge, with only one radiologist per million people, far below the global recommendation of 10 per 100,000.

According to Dr Somba, advanced imaging technologies are now facilitating early disease detection and promoting evidence-based treatment, saving more lives and resources.

“These advancements are enabling doctors to detect conditions earlier and plan treatments more effectively. It has significantly improved patient outcomes and reduced delays in care,” he said.

He added that the new technology has greatly increased patient throughput. The new scanner at MIC Imaging Center can serve up to 80 patients a day, compared to just 20 using older machines.

The equipment can perform a wide range of scans, including brain, spine, liver, prostate, breast, abdominal, and pelvic imaging, among others.

Joseph Mbai, General Manager for Health at Equity Group, commended private healthcare providers for their role in expanding access to advanced medical technology.

“Private facilities are instrumental in enhancing healthcare delivery by investing in modern, state-of-the-art equipment. However, the cost remains a major barrier. Installing a high-end MRI scanner like this one costs no less than Ksh.200 million,” Mbai said.

He urged the government to ensure that the Social Health Authority (SHA) includes coverage for chronic illnesses and specialised diagnostics such as MRI scans, to ease the financial burden on families.

Currently, patients pay between KSh 18,000 and KSh 32,000 per scan — costs that remain out of reach for many, particularly low-income households.

A local resident, Brian Muindi (name unconfirmed), welcomed the installation of the new MRI machine, saying it will save patients the long journeys and waiting times previously required to access services in Nairobi.

“This will save patients both time and money while enabling early diagnosis and treatment. I urge the government to include MRI services under the national health insurance scheme to make them more affordable,” he said.

The unveiling of the 72-channel MRI scanner marks a significant step toward improving access to advanced diagnostic care in Kenya, signalling a broader shift toward technology-driven healthcare solutions that are faster, safer, and more inclusive.