The government rolled out far-reaching reforms in the health sector this year, from electronic patient records and digital tools for community health workers to village-based screening programmes. Together, the initiatives strengthened early detection of illness, improved service quality, and brought care closer to communities nationwide. ALSO READ: Three priority areas highlighted as Rwanda launches new health strategy Among many developments, these ten stood out: Fifth Health Sector Strategic Plan (HSSP V) Launched on January 31, the Fifth Health Sector Strategic Plan (HSSP V) sets the roadmap for the health system through 2029. It builds on lessons from earlier strategies and responds to growing demand for services, particularly for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). HSSP V prioritises stronger primary healthcare, improved referral systems, and closing staffing gaps through expanded training and workforce support. Health centres are expected to handle more cases locally, easing pressure on referral hospitals. The plan also strengthens service quality, disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and equitable resource allocation to underserved communities. Health Intelligence Center (HIC) Opened in April, the Health Intelligence Center provides a central hub for health data drawn from hospitals, health centres, laboratories, and community health workers. By consolidating previously fragmented data, the HIC enables real-time monitoring of outbreaks, medicine shortages, and service gaps—supporting faster, evidence-based decision-making and better coordination across levels of care. In July, disease surveillance was further strengthened when the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), in partnership with UNICEF, rolled out digital reporting tools at health facilities. Tablets loaded with the “Impuruza” application improved the timeliness and accuracy of reporting priority diseases, enhancing early warning and rapid public health response. ALSO READ: Young people questioned on reluctance to take NCD screenings e-Ubuzima electronic health records The e-Ubuzima electronic health records system was officially launched on October 13 at the Africa HealthTech Summit in Kigali, replacing paper files in public facilities. Clinicians can now access patient records across participating facilities, improving continuity of care. Health workers say the system reduces paperwork, improves access to medical histories, and supports follow-up for chronic conditions. While uptake is high in urban and district hospitals, some rural centres still face connectivity and training challenges. Nationwide coverage is expected by the end of the year. ALSO READ: Inside Rwanda’s approach to epidemic preparedness Digital decision-support tools for community health workers In May, the Ministry of Health and RBC introduced digital decision-support tools for community health workers (CHWs). The tools guide screening, referral, and reporting, helping CHWs identify high-risk cases such as pregnancy complications, childhood illnesses, and chronic conditions—earlier. By cutting paperwork, the tools free up time for patient care and are expected to improve service quality, especially in remote areas where CHWs are often the first point of contact. Integrated community-led monitoring for HIV, TB and malaria In February, Rwanda launched an Integrated Community-Led Monitoring (CLM) system for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. Led by the Rwanda NGOs Forum on HIV/AIDS and Health Promotion, in collaboration with RBC and supported by the Global Fund, the system empowers community organisations to monitor service delivery. Community feedback has helped flag treatment interruptions, access barriers, and stigma, improving outreach and ensuring timely care for vulnerable groups, including young people and people living with HIV. Community-based screening for hypertension and NCDs In September, community-based screening for hypertension and other NCDs was expanded, with CHWs conducting basic blood pressure checks and referring patients for further care. By bringing screening to villages and homes, the programme promotes early detection and prevention of complications such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure, while reducing travel costs for patients. Second Joint External Evaluation (JEE) Rwanda underwent its second Joint External Evaluation in May, assessing readiness to prevent, detect, and respond to public health emergencies. The review found gains in surveillance, laboratory capacity, and coordination, while highlighting gaps in emergency response planning and workforce readiness. The findings will guide investments in preparedness and strengthen early warning systems. TRIBE-HUB Project Launched in July, the TRIBE-HUB Project, which has transformed RBC into an Excellence Hub for National and Regional Public Health aims to strengthen research, training, and disease surveillance. It enhances data systems, builds skilled professionals, and promotes regional collaboration for cross-border disease detection. As a regional centre of excellence, TRIBE-HUB also supports knowledge sharing and technical assistance across Africa. Integrated maternal and child health services package In January, the Ministry of Health enhanced the Integrated Maternal and Child Health Services Package, combining immunisation, nutrition, antenatal care, and postnatal follow-up into a single programme. The integration reduces missed services, improves follow-up for high-risk mothers and children, and ensures seamless care from pregnancy through early childhood. Expansion of the e-IDSR system In November, Rwanda expanded its electronic Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (e-IDSR) system under the One Health approach, linking human, animal, and wildlife health. Launched on World Health Day, the upgrade enables real-time reporting of epidemic-prone and zoonotic diseases via web, mobile, or SMS. The rollout included nationwide training and digitisation of surveillance activities across districts.
