Rwandan economist Donald Kaberuka has been recognised as a global health champion by the Gates Foundation for his contribution to advancing global healthcare. Kaberuka, a former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and past Chair of the Global Fund Board, was lauded for his continued advocacy for innovation in the way healthcare systems are run, financed, and deliver care. ALSO READ: Kaberuka bids farewell to President Kagame His award is part of the Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers initiative, launched in 2017 to bring together leaders, innovators, and change-makers from around the world to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative focuses on reducing preventable child deaths, strengthening health systems, and showcasing progress through data, storytelling, and collective action. Kaberuka received the recognition during a Goalkeepers event in New York City, held alongside the 80th UN General Assembly from September 23–29. The event brought together global leaders to discuss strategies for reducing child mortality under the theme “We Can’t Stop at Almost,” which emphasized the urgency of protecting past gains in global health and renewing commitments to save children’s lives. ALSO READ: Dr Kaberuka joins Rockefeller board “At our Goalkeepers 2025 event, Dr. Kaberuka was recognised as a Gates Foundation Champion for his unwavering diligence towards his mission of driving sustainable financing, building resilient systems, and ensuring better health for all. Celebrate his vision for a healthier future,” the Gates Foundation posted on its official X account on October 1. The foundation further praised Kaberuka’s leadership, noting that “As former President of the AfDB and past Chair of the Global Fund Board, Kaberuka continues to advocate for innovation in the way healthcare systems are run, financed, and deliver services to patients.” ALSO READ: Rwanda signs $7.5m deal with Gates Foundation to launch AI hub Reacting to the recognition, Kaberuka expressed gratitude, as he pointed to the importance of collective effort. “I do so in the name of many who have been part of this collective endeavour,” he said. “The new complex global landscape means there is now even much more to do to ensure sustainability and resilience for the health of our people.” ALSO READ: Rwandan start-ups get $50,000 grant, wider market from Bill Gates-funded initiative Every year, the Goalkeepers initiative celebrates individuals and organisations driving progress toward the 2030 Global Goals, with a strong emphasis on amplifying the voices and addressing the needs of others. Reflecting on the impact of global health initiatives, Bill Gates expressed optimism about the future, noting, “Over the last 25 years, we cut child deaths in half, from 10 million to less than 5 million. It’s an amazing success story, but the story isn’t over yet. I am betting on humanity to continue progress so more children can reach their fifth birthday.”
