The government of China on Sunday donated medical equipment to Rwanda for fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Handed over to the Ministry of Health, the equipment include 2000 N95 protective facemasks for medical use, 10,000 surgical masks, 2000 disposable protective clothing, 500 infrared thermometers, 2000 medical protective goggles, 10,000 pairs of medical isolation shoes covers, disposable sterilized rubber surgical gloves.

This, according to the Chinese embassy in Rwanda is the first of the two batches the Asian country is sending to Rwanda.

The second donation is set to be bigger with 5,000 medical preventive suits, 10,000 N95 facemasks, 100,000 surgical masks, 3000 medical eye shields, among others.

Rao Hongwei the ambassador of China to Rwanda said that the donated materials show his country’s determination and solidarity with Rwanda at this "special moment.”

"I’m sure they will contribute to the fight against the pandemic in Rwanda,” he said.

"China will never forget the sincere assistance and support from Rwanda during our most difficult period to defeat the virus. President Kagame and Secretary General Ngarambe of RPF sent letters of solidarity and support to the Chinese Government and the Communist Party of China respectively,” he added.

He also appreciated Rwandans for taking comprehensive, thorough and rigorous prevention and control measures.

"More and more recoveries have been discharged from hospitals and up to now no deaths are reported. These achievements deserve respect and congratulations,” he said.

"Just as President Kagame said, the focus should remain on collectively fighting COVID-19 as a united global community. Healthy lives for all is a common aspiration, which should be an important part of the collective efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind. All countries should choose solidarity, reason and action over disagreement, prejudice and procrastination, and work together to tide over the tough times.”

By Saturday evening, Rwanda had 187 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Of these, 88 have recovered.