The answer, as the conference progressed, became increasingly clear: AI, digital pathology and new diagnostic modalities are an essential part of the solution. These technologies and workflows can enable us to maximise the impact of the few pathologists we have and serve our patients precisely. In the immediate present, there are many real African communities that do not have access to a single pathologist. Digital pathology can provide them with an immediate pathway to specialist care. However, achieving true health equity requires us to think and invest in long-term structural changes.

Investing in the training of more pathologists to fill the gaps in the various subspecialties is crucial in ensuring a robust health system that can respond to the growing burden of various diseases effectively.

Additionally, integrating pathologists more broadly into our health system is crucial for effective cancer management. It remains concerning that we are still discussing the involvement of pathologists in our crucial national referral laboratories when the expertise is readily available. More importantly, it is important for pathologists to embrace collaboration, pursue research, and publish more to increase Kenya’s visibility in the scientific innovation space. This is how we ensure holistic patient care for all.

I left Mombasa feeling quite optimistic about the field. The pathologists and diagnostic professionals gathered there demonstrated both the creativity to innovate within constraints and the determination to address root causes of disease. The involvement of national and county government officials also provided the much-needed visibility for pathologists’ concerns. For a profession often working behind the scenes, the attendance and engagement was diverse. I personally invited two data scientists and a physicist who were part of my project team and they enjoyed their time in the conference. Kudos to the KACP 2025 organising team.