With Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as a national goal, the country is building a health system based on community-based care, digital advancements, and local capacity development. Rwanda is showing that affordable and high-quality healthcare is achievable even in growing economies.
At the heart of Rwanda’s healthcare journey is its goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030. Today, over 83% of its people are insured under the Community-Based Health Insurance scheme, reducing financial barriers to care.
A major driver of this transformation is the Health Sector Strategic Plan V, which focuses on expanding access to care, increasing the number of health workers, upscaling hospitals to modern standards and embracing technology with initiatives like e-Ubuzima. This digital platform plans to eliminate physical records and improve patient care countrywide.
With the push for localised vaccine production and biomanufacturing, health centres like Kigali Health City show the path where Rwanda can become a regional leader in health innovation.
Maternal mortality rate has reduced by half in less than a decade, malaria cases have dwindled, and childhood immunisation rates are way ahead. These are a few of the positive signs we can see from the steps already being taken. However, it isn’t over, and challenges remain, ranging from a shortage of specialists, infrastructure gaps and insufficient funding.
Opportunities for private investment are growing—especially in digital health, pharmaceutical production, specialised care, and medical tourism. Rwanda’s Ministry of Health actively seeks partnerships to achieve its ambitious goals.
One key partner is Partners In Health, working closely with the government through Inshuti Mu Buzima. From cancer care to data-driven community health services, they embody the collaborative spirit driving Rwanda’s healthcare success.
In all, Rwanda’s healthcare system reflects a nation determined to secure quality care for its people while becoming a leader in health innovation for Africa.
