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Swiss generics maker Sandoz signs deal with Rwandan government

Administrator — 2026-04-16T12:22:10Z

Sandoz has signed an agreement with the Rwandan government for the direct supply of essential medicines, including antibiotics and cancer drugs.

In addition to Rwanda, the supply is intended to include selected African partner countries and could be expanded in the future.

The agreement with the Rwandan government, which initially covers about 60 products, is a first step toward a sustainable regional procurement model for affordable, high-quality medicines, Simon Goeller, Chief Transformation and Growth Officer at Sandoz, is quoted as saying in the press release.

The additional quantities will be supplied from the Kundl plant in Austria, the company announced on Wednesday.

Sandoz said medicines supplied under the deal will be produced in Austria, at one of Europe's last major antibiotic manufacturing hubs. The company believes the partnership could serve as a model for a more sustainable system of procuring affordable medicines across Africa.

Simon Goeller, Chief Transformation and Growth Officer at Sandoz, described the agreement as a “first step” toward building a long-term regional supply system that ensures patients can access the medicines they need without disruptions.

“It is good news for Rwanda and for Africa,” Goeller was quoted as saying in a statement by the company.

“Securing additional volumes for this important region is great progress, but we still need urgent and similar action from EU governments to ensure the sustainability of this unique European asset, which is critical to Europe's long-term autonomy and resilience.”

The Minister of Health, Sabin Nsanzimana, said Rwanda is among the few countries in Sub-Saharan Africa that reimburse cancer treatment through its public health system, while continuing to prioritise the fight against infectious diseases.

“This partnership reflects our efforts to work with established biosimilar and generic manufacturers to expand access to quality, affordable cancer care and essential antibiotic therapies,” he said.

“Through this agreement, Rwanda aims to support improved access to treatment for patients within Rwanda and across the African Union.”

The agreement builds on the 2025 Alpbach Communiqué, a global initiative aimed at securing reliable antibiotic supply chains from Europe to other regions, including Africa.

Rwanda was among the countries that supported the initiative and is also home to the African Medicines Agency, further reinforcing its role in advancing access to medicines on the continent.

China Donates Medical Equipment Worth Rwf30 Million to Masaka Hospital

Mugisha R. John — 2026-04-11T10:01:26Z

The Chinese Embassy in Rwanda has donated medical equipment worth 30 million Rwandan francs to Masaka Hospital in Kicukiro District to support surgical care.

The equipment, handed over April 10, 2026, includes a modern hospital bed, surgical lights and other supplies intended to improve operating room capacity.

Dr. Oreste Tuganeyezu, director general for general health services at the Ministry of Health, said the donation reflects ongoing cooperation between Rwanda and China in the health sector.

“This support builds on existing partnerships, including assistance in constructing CHUK and the deployment of medical doctors,” he said, noting that about 18 Chinese doctors are currently working in Rwanda, some at Masaka Hospital and others at Kibungo Hospital.

Tuganeyezu said the new equipment will help strengthen surgical services and improve the quality of care delivered to patients.

Masaka Hospital Director Dr. Hanyurwimfura Jean Damascene said the donation highlights 14 years of collaboration with China, including annual medical team deployments.

“The equipment we received today complements what we already have and will help us provide better services to the community while supporting both Rwandan and Chinese doctors,” he said.
Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Gao Wenqi said the donation underscores the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

“This is part of our continued contribution to strengthening health services and improving people's well-being,” he said.

Rwanda and China have maintained diplomatic relations for about 40 years. China sends medical teams to Rwanda annually, with the current group marking the 26th team, which has collectively treated more than 5,000 patients.

Lawmakers push for greater mental health support amid rising cases

Administrator — 2026-03-26T17:20:22Z

Parliament held talks with Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva on Thursday, focusing on citizen-centered policies, with particular attention to mental health.

Lawmakers raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of mental illness in the country and pressed the government on measures to support affected individuals.

Sen. Marie Rose Mureshyankwano said, “This issue of mental illness is worrying; you may even find people here who are affected.”

Some deputies highlighted the need for programs to support secondary school students, both in boarding schools and those studying from home.

A recent report from the National Commission for Human Rights noted overcrowding in mental health facilities. Visits to Caraes-Huye, Icyizere-Kicukiro, Caraes Ndera in Gasabo, and Isange Rehab found that while overcrowding in Gasabo has decreased, Caraes Butare remains above 145% capacity.

The 2023-2024 report also revealed that some patients travel long distances for treatment and, in some cases, stop seeking care entirely. Statistics show the number of people with mental disorders in Rwanda has grown from 35,000 in 2017 to 50,000 in 2025.

Prime Minister Nsengiyumva said the challenges stem from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, as well as alcohol and drug abuse.

To address the issue, the government has introduced school counseling programs, expanded mental health services in health centers, and plans to increase the number of specialized professionals in the field.

Rwanda to host Africa blood transfusion conference in 2028 after 12-year gap

Administrator — 2026-03-26T07:43:54Z

Rwanda will host a major continental conference on blood transfusion and related medical services in 2028, organizers said, marking the country's return as host after more than a decade.

The event will be held in partnership with the Africa Society for Blood Transfusion (AfSBT), according to an announcement made during the organization's 12th conference underway in Namibia from March 21–26, 2026.

Rwanda is represented at the meeting by Dr. Muyombo Thomas of the Rwanda National Center for Blood Transfusion (RCBT-Kigali), who told participants how the country uses drones to deliver blood to patients in need, particularly in remote areas.

The biennial conference brings together global experts in transfusion medicine, as well as professionals from blood centers across Africa and specialized healthcare providers.

The 2028 gathering will be the 13th edition of the conference. Rwanda last hosted the event in 2016.

Founded in 1997 in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, AfSBT works to strengthen blood transfusion services and related systems across African countries.

Rwanda has made significant gains in blood donation and supply in recent years, supported by growing public awareness. In 2024, the country collected 84,383 units of blood, meeting 99.72% of hospital demand, according to official data.

Figures from the Rwanda Biomedical Center show that O-positive blood accounted for the largest share, with 40,291 units collected, or 47.75% of the total. Other blood types included 20,007 units of A-positive, 15,137 units of B-positive and 3,393 units of AB-positive.

Less common blood types included 3,431 units of O-negative, 1,124 units of A-negative, 831 units of B-negative and 169 units of AB-negative, the least collected at 0.2%.

A total of 58,688 donors contributed to the blood supply, including 16,366 women, or 27.89%, and 42,322 men, or 72.11%, the data showed.

RICA warns public against freshly slaughtered chicken

Administrator — 2026-03-23T14:31:24Z

Rwanda's Inspection, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA) has warned the public against consuming freshly slaughtered chicken, saying it may not meet required safety standards.

Dr. Gaspard Simbarikure, a RICA official responsible for hygiene, quality inspection and quarantine of animal products, said the common practice of slaughtering chickens on demand for immediate consumption should be discouraged.

“People are used to having chickens slaughtered in front of them, but this needs to change,” he said.

Simbarikure said meat should be kept under regulated cold storage for at least 24 hours after slaughter to ensure safety and quality.

He urged consumers to confirm that meat has been inspected by a certified veterinarian and to request proof of inspection before purchase.

Benitha Niyogisubizo, a meat inspector at a slaughterhouse in Burera District, said meat processed at approved facilities undergoes proper hygiene and quality checks before being supplied to the market. She encouraged households and businesses to use authorized slaughterhouses.

Demand for chicken is rising in Rwanda as consumers seek more affordable alternatives to beef.

New health services lead to higher mutuelle de santé contributions

Administrator — 2026-03-21T13:53:26Z

Rwanda has increased contributions for its community-based health insurance program, Mutuelle de Santé, after adding costly new medical services, Health Minister Dr. Nsanzimana Sabin said.

Speaking on March 19 to the Parliamentary Committee on Governance, Gender, and Family Affairs, Dr. Nsanzimana explained that the newly added services which were previously fully funded by the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB), would increase costs by at least 21 billion Rwandan francs annually.

Launched 25 years ago, Mutuelle de Santé aims to provide universal access to healthcare. Membership fees started at 1,000 Frw, rose to 3,000 Frw in 2011, and are now adjusted by income: the lowest-income group is fully subsidized, while others pay 3,000 to 20,000 Frw per year. RSSB estimates that 90% of members will pay between 4,000 and 8,000 Frw.

The expanded coverage includes cancer treatment, kidney care, joint replacements, orthopedic and spinal surgeries, assistive devices for disabilities, hearing support, and eye care.

“Last year, Mutuelle spent 98 billion Frw, with members contributing 31 billion Frw, or about 34% of the total,” Dr. Nsanzimana said. He added that MINALOC and RSSB are correcting errors in assigning members to the proper payment tiers, aiming for completion by July 2026.

The minister emphasized that, despite the higher fees, costs remain reasonable compared to the services now provided. For example, kidney dialysis, previously limited to 18 sessions per patient, can now be fully covered, along with other expensive treatments.

Lawmakers welcomed the changes but urged the Health Ministry to clearly communicate the reasons for the new contributions and address potential issues, including medicine shortages and treatment delays.

The new contributions will be collected and implemented beginning July 2026.

Rwanda Plans School-Based Health Clinics, Expands Nursing Education

Administrator — 2026-03-19T17:30:05Z

Health Minister, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, announced plans to establish basic health clinics in schools across the country to improve student health services.

Speaking to the Parliamentary Committee on Governance, Gender, and Family Affairs, Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized the importance of providing on-site medical support for students. “We want schools to have basic clinics.

In some cases, there are facilities, but no trained personnel. Children can get injured while playing or contract contagious or mental health-related illnesses. Certain services are essential to have in schools,” he said.

The minister also highlighted the need for small clinics in crowded public spaces such as bus stations and markets, to provide care for injuries or other health issues that may arise.

Dr. Nsanzimana further outlined the government's plan to increase the number of high school-trained nurses to over 3,000 by 2029. These graduates are expected to strengthen the health sector and improve service delivery across hospitals and clinics. “The nursing program in secondary schools will help increase the workforce where nurses are highly needed,” he said.

The ministry has been implementing a program to quadruple the number of healthcare workers in Rwanda, which has already shown results across various health sectors. Since the reintroduction of secondary school-level nursing programs, many institutions have requested approval to offer the courses.

By 2028, the government aims to have 3,000 high school-trained nurses. “We chose to teach nursing at secondary school because nurses are in high demand. They are essential in health centers and schools, especially if schools are to have basic clinics,” Dr. Nsanzimana explained.

He added that increasing the number of trained nurses will ensure that health facilities and schools have sufficient staff to meet growing demand, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Rwanda Introduces New HPV Vaccine, Gardasil 9, to Prevent Cervical Cancer

Administrator — 2026-03-09T17:28:30Z

Rwanda has begun administering a new vaccine, Gardasil 9, to protect against human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that can cause cervical cancer and other cancers of the reproductive organs.

The Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) said the vaccine is currently being rolled out in Gicumbi, Karongi, Kayonza, and Nyarugenge districts. Gardasil 9 protects against nine types of HPV, including the four most common strains — 6, 11, 16, and 18 — plus five additional types.

Rwanda is the first country in Africa to introduce Gardasil 9 into its immunization program.

Hassan Sibomana, RBC's Director of Immunization Services, told The New Times that the vaccine differs from the previously used Gardasil 4, which protected against only four HPV types. “Gardasil 9 protects against multiple HPV strains that can cause different cancers and offers broader protection than the previous vaccine,” he said.

The vaccine is administered in two doses for people aged 9 to 45, with schoolgirls receiving a single dose. The initial rollout targets selected districts to assess effectiveness and safety before nationwide distribution. RBC plans to inform communities as additional doses become available.

Sibomana emphasized Gardasil 9's potential to significantly reduce cervical cancer. “Our goal is to reach 90% vaccination coverage, screen 70% of women, and provide treatment to 90% of those diagnosed. Last year, nearly 95% of 12-year-old girls in targeted districts were vaccinated successfully,” he said.

Rwanda Revamps Mutuelle Health Insurance to Cover Expensive Treatments

Mugisha R. John — 2026-02-24T11:03:00Z

Government has revised contributions for its community-based health insurance program, Mutuelle, increasing payments for most members while boosting government support, officials said. The changes are set out in a Prime Minister's order published in the Official Gazette on Feb. 23, 2026, replacing rules in effect since 2020.

Under the new system, contributions are determined by social categories in the “Dynamic Social Registry.” Category 1 members continue to have their 4,000 Rwandan francs (FRW) per person per year fully covered by the government. Category 2 members pay 3,000 FRW, with a 1,000 FRW government subsidy. Category 3 rises to 5,000 FRW, Category 4 to 8,000 FRW, and Category 5 members contribute 20,000 FRW annually.

Officials cited rising healthcare costs, expanded services, and changes in disease patterns as reasons for the increase. Mutuelle now covers expensive treatments, including cancer care, non-communicable diseases, dialysis, and kidney transplants. The Ministry of Health estimates the cost per person will reach 13,819 FRW in the 2025-26 fiscal year, more than 60% higher than last year. Nearly half of deaths in health facilities in 2024 were due to non-communicable diseases, highlighting the need for additional funding.

The government emphasized that the reform aims to create a sustainable financing system, where contributions match members' ability to pay while protecting the poorest. Category 1 members remain fully covered, and Category 2 members continue receiving subsidies. Additional government funding will help reduce household burdens and ensure the program's long-term sustainability.

Launched in 1999, Mutuelle has provided Rwandans with access to healthcare for over 25 years. The latest adjustments aim to align contributions with current costs while protecting families from financial hardship.

President Kagame Joins Kigali Residents for Monthly Car-Free Day Exercise

Mugisha R. John — 2026-02-22T14:29:22Z

President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined senior government officials and hundreds of Kigali residents Sunday for the city's monthly Car-Free Day, a public exercise initiative aimed at promoting healthy living and reducing air pollution.

The event, held Feb. 22, saw several major roads across the capital closed from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., allowing residents to walk, jog, cycle and play outdoor sports without vehicle traffic. Participants also engaged in street tennis and three-on-three basketball.

Among officials in attendance were Minister of State for Sports Rwego Ngarambe, Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana and Kigali Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva.

Launched in May 2016, Car-Free Day was designed to encourage Kigali residents to adopt regular physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. Over time, the initiative has expanded beyond the capital, with other provinces organizing similar events.

Health officials say the program also serves as a platform to raise awareness about disease prevention. During designated periods of the event, residents receive free medical consultations and screenings for various conditions, particularly non-communicable diseases.

The Ministry of Health emphasizes that regular exercise plays a key role in preventing illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes.

Research by Rwandan scholar Theobard Habineza of Carnegie Mellon University found that air pollution levels in Kigali drop by 17% on Car-Free Day, highlighting the environmental benefits of temporarily limiting vehicle traffic in the city.