The New Times Rwanda has emerged as one of the models of effective management of public health crises. Through its national pandemic prevention strategy – applied during Covid-19, Mpox, and Marburg Virus outbreaks – the country has demonstrated the value of early preparation, innovation, and community-driven efforts in safeguarding public health.
At the core of Rwanda’s approach is its Early Warning and Surveillance Systems, which enable swift detection of outbreaks and proactive responses. The Rwanda Health Management Information System (R-HMIS) has been vital in real-time disease tracking, while more than 60,000 Community Health Workers (CHWs) act as the first line of defence in local communities, helping monitor health issues and promoting early interventions.
Rwanda’s investment in public and private health infrastructure has also been critical. The expansion of healthcare facilities, alongside the introduction of nationwide contact tracing, mass testing, and vaccination campaigns, starting with frontline workers, has supported effective disease management. Notably, isolation centres and widespread testing have helped contain the spread of viruses like Marburg.