As time has passed, the acute challenges that were posed by the Covid-19 pandemic have indeed become a distant memory for many. With the collective efforts of the global community, vaccination campaigns, and the implementation of public health measures, countries have made substantial progress in containing this terrible virus. Many regions have experienced a return to a semblance of normalcy, with fewer restrictions and a resumption of daily activities. While the scars of the pandemic remain, the sense of urgency has waned, and for some, Covid-19 now seems like a chapter in the past. However, the lessons learned during this challenging period have reshaped healthcare and public health, leaving a legacy that continues to inform our responses to future health crises. The Covid-19 pandemic brought forth unprecedented challenges, but it also catalysed an extraordinary leap in healthcare technology. From rapid digital health innovations to telemedicine solutions and contact tracing apps, the global response to the pandemic showcased the immense potential of innovation in healthcare. As the pandemic continues to evolve and new health threats emerge, it's imperative that countries worldwide continue to harness these technological advances. The lessons learned during the pandemic underscore the significance of agile, technology-driven approaches to healthcare. The benefits are manifold, including improved healthcare accessibility, quicker response to outbreaks, enhanced patient care, and more efficient health systems. By embracing and building upon these advances, countries can better equip themselves to face future health challenges, ultimately paving the way for healthier, more resilient societies. The legacy of the Covid-19 pandemic should serve as a driving force for ongoing innovation and the integration of technology into our healthcare landscape. Rwanda has emerged as a remarkable example of a nation that has strategically placed technology at the heart of its development plans. Over the past few decades, Rwanda's leadership has recognised the transformative power of technology in shaping its economic and social progress. From ambitious initiatives in education, healthcare, and governance to the expansion of digital infrastructure and connectivity, Rwanda has harnessed technology to drive inclusive and sustainable development. This vision has not only accelerated economic growth but has also improved public services, ensuring that citizens can access education, healthcare, and vital information. Rwanda's commitment to becoming a regional tech hub is evidenced by investments in tech startups and innovation hubs, making it a centre for the African tech ecosystem. By putting technology at the forefront of its development agenda, Rwanda has set a precedent for how a nation can leverage the digital age to transform the lives of its citizens and build a promising future. Rwanda has the infrastructure to harness and leverage technology to advance public health, building upon the momentum initiated during the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic stimulated the need to develop and position various applications such as health maps that present the outbreak situation in real time. Rwanda also expanded the use of mobile technology and digital health technologies in sharing results after Covid-19 testing, weekly updates on the pandemic, mobile money transactions to avoid interactions, and many others. The use of Robotics in screening and in healthcare management of Covid-19 was also groundbreaking. The digital infrastructure and healthcare technologies developed during this crisis offer a solid foundation for further innovation. Telemedicine and digital health records, for instance, can streamline healthcare delivery, making it more efficient and accessible, especially in remote areas. Ongoing investments in these areas will not only enhance patient care but also enable early disease detection and monitoring, which is crucial in the context of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Lessons learned from data-driven decision-making during the pandemic can be applied to other public health challenges, ensuring that healthcare policies and interventions are tailored to the specific needs of the population. During the 9th Grand Challenges Annual Meeting held on October 10, in Senegal, the Minister of Health, Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, discussed the massive potential of Artificial Intelligence in not only changing but revolutionising health care in the country. The minister also informed the meeting that Rwanda is considering Artificial Intelligence as an opportunity to catch up in many areas given the scarcity of tools, trained people, and faster service delivery. As we move forward, it is essential to remember that the lessons we've learned during the Covid-19 pandemic are not just a testament to our resilience but also a roadmap for the future. The pandemic served as a catalyst for innovation, showcasing the extraordinary power of technology in healthcare and public health. Rwanda's commitment to harnessing this potential, as demonstrated in its strategic adoption of technology, can serve as an inspiration for other African nations and worldwide. Dr Vincent Mutabazi is an applied epidemiologist. X: @VkneeM
