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Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Nsanzimana Sabin, addressed a gathering of global health leaders at the inaugural International Health Ministers Summit held in Kigali from December 4 to 5, 2024.In his opening remarks, Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized the vital importance of health systems in enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities alike.”It’s a pleasure to join you today, as the topic is very dear to all our hearts, especially those working in the health sector. There is nothing more important than the lives of people and their health,” stated Dr. Nsanzimana.
He underscored that when people are healthy, they are happier and more productive, ultimately benefiting their families and communities. “As a common sage in Rwanda says, there is no better investment than investing in our own health. Health is not merely a negotiable investment; it is a fundamental human right.” As the host country, Rwanda welcomed various health ministers, industry stakeholders, and representatives from both governmental and non-governmental organizations, expressing gratitude for their participation.
Dr. Nsanzimana called for action and implementation beyond mere discussion, referencing the insights shared by the Kenyan Minister of Health regarding community health workers and their critical role.He introduced what he termed the “four S’s” of health system strengthening: Staff, Space, Systems, and Support.
Nsanzimana highlighted the pressing need for healthcare professionals, revealing alarming statistics that show an average of one healthcare provider for every 1,000 people in many regions, compared to the World Health Organization’s recommended ratio of four providers per 1,000.To combat this shortage, Rwanda has launched an ambitious initiative called “4×4,” aimed at quadrupling the number of healthcare workers within the next four years.Dr. Nsanzimana reported promising progress, with a 3.6 times increase in enrollment in medical and health-related fields during the first year of the program’s implementation.
In addition to addressing staffing issues, the Minister stressed the significance of adequate infrastructure for healthcare delivery.He emphasized the need for building and upgrading medical facilities, including operating theaters and emergency departments, to provide quality care for patients.Drawing from experiences over the last two decades, Dr. Sabin underscored the critical importance of investing in human resources and the training of healthcare professionals.”In a month, if you choose not to invest in training someone, you lose out on a valuable opportunity for future generations,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that education and training must remain a top priority for health systems.
He elaborated on the necessity of decentralizing healthcare services, ensuring that quality care is accessible to all, particularly in underserved regions.He stressed the importance of having an uninterrupted supply chain for medical resources, stating, “Healthcare systems need to be supplied continuously; they require medicine, medical equipment, and essential devices without disruption.”Dr. Sabin also highlighted the importance of governance and structured systems to facilitate access to healthcare at affordable costs.He noted that effective coordination among leaders across various sectors is crucial for breaking down financial barriers that prevent individuals from receiving necessary medical care.
The minister urged attendees to embrace technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence, to bridge the gaps in resources and training.“We need tools that help us work better, faster, and more efficiently, especially in our context where demands often exceed our capabilities,” he said.In a passionate call to action, Dr. Sabin challenged fellow ministers and health leaders not to get stuck in endless discussions but to convert dialogue into tangible actions. He urged collaboration and innovation, emphasizing that seemingly ambitious ideas could lead to monumental changes in the health sector.
As the summit continues, the focus remains on fostering partnerships and creating a shared vision for the future of global health.Dr. Sabin concluded by inspiring attendees to support innovative policies and actions that have the potential to set new standards in health and wellness around the world. “Let us not hesitate to embrace the future; the time for action is now,” he asserted, calling on all present to join him in this transformative journey.
