Vivian Arinaitwe is a biomedical engineer whose dedication to neonatal care has led to the founding of Che Innovations Uganda Limited. This company is committed to developing locally made medical devices that provide affordable healthcare solutions, particularly focusing on neonatal health. One of Che Innovations’ flagship products is the NeoNest, a low-cost infant warmer designed to prevent preterm hypothermia during ambulance trips in low- and middle-income countries.
Each year, millions of premature (preterm) babies lose their lives to preventable complications. According to data from Che Innovations, a preterm baby dies every 40 seconds, with the majority of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. In Uganda, especially at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, 40% of babies are born and received are preterm.
These infants often come from rural villages located 2 to 4 hours away, and during these lengthy journeys, there are no effective methods to keep them warm. NeoNest maintains a consistent temperature between 36°C and 37°C for up to 4 hours, ensuring that preterm infants remain warm and safe during transit.
The device is lightweight and portable, weighing less than 3 kg, making it easy to transport and handle in emergencies. Moreover, it is cost-effective, with materials priced under $68, making it affordable for low—and middle-income countries.
NeoNest accommodates various infant sizes, ensuring a secure and comfortable environment for preterm babies. Designed for use in ambulances, it guarantees that preterm infants are safe and secure during transit, and it is equipped with built-in safety features to prevent overheating.
“It is a unique solution to providing thermal care for preterms. The bassinet would be very effective at our hospital,” reviewed a Ugandan Nurse.
Che Innovations has received numerous grants and support from global health innovation organisations. They recently won the top award at the Transforming African MedTech Conference. The NeoNest device was the runner-up in the annual Michigan Business Challenge, competing against over 120 teams and placing in the Seigle Impact Track.
Additionally, NeoNest was among the Top 8 internationally in the Johns Hopkins Healthcare Competition, selected from 286 proposals and 123 universities. The innovation was also highlighted in the 2024 cohort of the Most Disruptive Business School Startups list, honouring startups from the nation’s leading business schools.
NeoNest is utilized at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, delivering crucial thermal care to preterm infants during transport. The company has also formed partnerships in regions such as Migori, Kenya; Kabale, Uganda; and Kumasi, Ghana, where medical personnel have expressed strong confidence in its effectiveness.
Vivian Arinaitwe, the innovator, has concentrated on sustainable, affordable, and locally produced medical devices, paving the way for a self-sustaining system of medical devices in Uganda and beyond.
