Nesma Amin launches Aziza app to address Egyptian women's health taboos

Nesma Amin, an Egyptian entrepreneur, has launched the Aziza app to tackle significant gaps in women’s health literacy and healthcare access in Egypt. Founded in 2023, the platform specifically targets issues surrounding menstruation and reproductive health, which remain heavily stigmatized in many parts of the country. By providing culturally sensitive information, the app aims to empower women who have traditionally been excluded from formal health education and medical services due to social and economic barriers.

The initiative comes in response to a 2019 study that revealed only 20% of Egyptian women are covered by medical insurance. This lack of coverage often forces women to forgo necessary medical consultations because of prohibitive private healthcare costs. Aziza addresses this by offering a suite of free digital tools, including menstrual and pregnancy trackers, intentionally avoiding a paid subscription model to ensure maximum accessibility. Amin emphasizes that using familiar, non-technical language is crucial for building trust and ensuring the information resonates with the daily experiences of Egyptian women.

Beyond digital tracking, the broader Egyptian femtech market is beginning to shift toward sustainable health solutions. While disposable pads have traditionally dominated the market, there is a growing interest in reusable period underwear and other eco-friendly alternatives. Although these products face some cultural resistance, developers and advocates argue that long-term success depends on tailoring health solutions to the specific cultural and economic realities of the region. By focusing on usability and regional relevance, these platforms seek to create a new standard for women’s healthcare in North Africa.