The Government has slashed the cost of Covid-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Rwandans from Rwf47,000 to 30,000 within the festive season. 

The new prices take effect from this week to January 10 next year.

Announcing the development, Dr. Daniel Ngamije, the Minister of Health said it is aimed at relieving people of high expenditures during the festive season.

"Because the government cares for the citizens and remembers that there are lots of expenditures in the festive season, it has taken a decision that PCR tests will cost Rwf30,000. The remaining Rwf17,000 will be paid for by the government," he said.

PCR is an advanced laboratory technique for testing for diseases by detecting the presence of their genetic material in the body.

The method is considered as the ‘gold standard’ for the detection of some viruses, as it is characterised by high sensitivity and specificity.

Due to this, PCR test results are, for instance, required of all travelers coming in and going out of the country.

In addition to this, rapid antigen tests compliment the PCR tests in Rwanda, especially for people that are going to attend events like weddings, burials among others.

A rapid antigen test costs Rwf5,000.