Residents living near the border with Uganda in Nyagatare district once faced the daunting task of traveling long distances for medical treatment in Uganda, incurring significant expenses and time.

However, recent upgrades to health facilities have transformed this scenario. According to residents, the necessity for cross-border medical assistance is dwindling as the upgraded health centers and posts increasingly meet the community's healthcare needs.

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Especially in terms of eye and dental care services, residents previously considered crossing into Uganda as the most viable option. However, the reliability and affordability of services there were often questionable. Today, residents have access to quality medical care closer to home, eliminating the need for long-distance travel and reducing costs.

Jovanis Mbabazi, a resident of Tabagwe sector, expressed gratitude for the upgrades to Karama Health Post, stating, "We are grateful for the improvements to Karama Health Post, as it has made healthcare much more accessible for us."

Previously, crossing into Uganda seemed like the only option, albeit a risky one, particularly for services like eye and dental care. With the enhancements to local health posts, residents no longer face the financial burdens and risks associated with seeking medical care across the border.

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Stephen Gasana, the Mayor of Nyagatare District, highlighted that the upgraded health post now offers a range of services, including eye and dental care, circumcision, and maternal services.

"We have upgraded five health posts to second-generation status, including Ndego in Karama, Karambo in Kiyombe, among others. Residents near the border can now access quality healthcare services without undertaking long journeys.

Additionally, these health centers have helped curtail unlawful border crossings by residents seeking medical assistance."

Nyagatare district boasts two district hospitals, 20 health centers, 83 operational health posts, 16 private clinics, and over 10 pharmacies. In 2019, 23 health posts were completed and inaugurated by the Ministry of Health and partners, each costing over Rwf 20 million.

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According to the health officials in Nyagatare District, the upgraded health facilities have seen a significant increase in patients, now serving 200 daily compared to 50 patients before the inclusion of new medical services.

Albert Kayishema, Health Promotion and Disease Control Officer in Nyagatare, disclosed plans for a new health center between Rwimiyaga and Rwempasha health posts.

"Considering the locations of Bugaragara Health Center and Rwempasha Health Center, both situated on the outskirts and requiring patients to travel long distances, a new health center in Rwimiyaga Center would provide more convenient access for residents," Kayishema said. The upgrade of healthcare facilities has significantly expanded healthcare services for residents near borders, aligning with the country's goal to ensure that by 2024, individuals need to walk less than 24 minutes to reach a health facility.