HAVAÍC HealthTechs among 2025 startups to watch

South Africa’s digital economy is projected to reach US$180 billion in 2025, driven by increased internet penetration, mobile technology adoption, and the rise of e-commerce and digital services, according to a recent article by TechAfrica.com.

Despite challenges such as infrastructure gaps, unemployment, and an uncertain economic landscape, young techpreneurs are developing solutions in everything from healthtech to agritech. Local tech startups are not just surviving; they are also attracting various local and international investors. According to Statista, venture capital investment in SA is on track to exceed US$460 million in 2025, with more deals expected by year-end.

Among TechAfrica's startups to watch in 2025 are HAVAÍC's HealthTech portfolio companies RecoMed, hearX Group, and 3x4 Genetics. According to the article, the healthcare sector in South Africa is also showing significant growth with a projected revenue of US$6.2 billion by 2030.

Here's why our portfolio companies are making headlines -

RecoMed

RecoMed is one of South Africa’s largest and fastest-growing online healthcare booking platforms. The company specialises in helping patients find and access healthcare providers 24/7. RecoMed’s mobile platform features over 3,000 practitioners and processes more than 100,000 bookings per month.

The company recently received significant funding from Japanese pharmaceutical company Eisai, exceeding its previous investment of US$1.45 million in 2021.

hearX Group

hearX is specialises in developing and providing digital hearing health solutions, focusing on affordable and accessible hearing care through its smart screening and testing equipment. The company offers a range of tools, including mobile-based hearing screenings, online hearing tests, and diagnostic tools for healthcare professionals.

Recently, the company merged with US-based Eargo in a US$100 million deal to expand its artificial intelligence (AI)-driven hearing solutions globally.

3X4 Genetics

3X4 Genetics offers DNA-based genetic tests to help individuals manage their health through personalised insights. The company’s home-based diagnostic kit can be used to test the genetic biomarkers from the provided sample. The app can be used to scan the QR code of the test to receive test results.

The company has raised over US$2.5 million in funding to date and was recently announced as a partner for the preeminent cancer research and treatment non-profit organisation, the Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health.

The companies listed demonstrate established products, clear market fits, and strong growth metrics—precisely the attributes investors seek, says TechAfrica.com. As the digital economy accelerates towards US$180 billion, now is the time to explore and back the startups shaping Africa’s future.