Snake bites pose a serious public health issue in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly impacting people working in agriculture and livestock farming in countries like Tanzania. Estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2018 suggest that around 130,000 people die each year from the effects of snake bites, and approximately 400,000 people suffer from permanent disabilities following such bites. These cases not only create significant economic losses for tropical countries but also lead to profound personal and social consequences, as snake bites can financially ruin families and irrevocably disrupt lives.

In theory, snake bite treatment is well within the reach of modern medicine. The only direct and effective medical treatment for a snake bite is the administration of a specific antidote, known as "antivenom." This antivenom can be designed to target either one or multiple species of venomous snakes, depending on the region and the specific needs of local populations. However, producing antivenom is a highly intricate and costly process, requiring advanced technology and expertise. As a result, only a limited number of pharmaceutical companies worldwide are equipped to manufacture this critical medication.

The complexity and cost of production lead to a persistent shortage of antivenom in sub-Saharan Africa, which has devastating consequences for affected populations. Due to the scarcity, the prices of antivenom are often prohibitively high, placing an enormous burden on individuals and families, many of whom lack access to health insurance or social safety nets. This economic barrier often results in delays in accessing treatment, which in turn leads to severe long-term health complications for the patients. In many cases, the lack of timely treatment can mean the difference between life and death, or between full recovery and permanent disability.