King Faisal Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in Rwanda is set to undergo a major expansion project, with the groundbreaking already done by President Paul Kagame on Monday, July 22.

Besides the fact that the expansion will increase the hospital’s bed capacity from 167 to almost 600, here are a few more things you should know.

Luxurious architecture

Amine Tannouri, the CEO of Shelter Group Africa, a company partnering with Rwanda in the expansion of the hospital, said the facility will offer luxurious architecture and ergonomic design reminiscent of a five-star hotel.

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Hospitals in various parts of the world are investing in top quality, luxurious facilities as a means to improve patient satisfaction, and boost holistic healing through a more pleasant environment.

Introduction of new subspecialties

The ambitious project will bring on board a dedicated unit for stroke, spine, and neurology, and expanded cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, and orthopedic surgery services.

In addition, the hospital will introduce cutting-edge tech procedures such as robotic and minimally invasive surgeries, alongside advanced services in urology, general, vascular, and plastic surgeries.

KFH will also upgrade its oncology department, introduce additional critical care and accident and emergency services, as well as bring on board expanded cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, and orthopedic surgery services.

New health science university

"It's not just a hospital, it is also a new university of health sciences that was approved by the cabinet this year,” said health minister Dr Sabin Nsanzimana during the ground-breaking ceremony for the expansion works on KFH.

The university will launch its first cohort in September, focusing on most areas including anaesthesiology, intensive care, and radiology.

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KFH’s services will not be affected as the expansion goes on

According to officials at the hospital, as the expansion takes shape, no services will be affected and "the hospital will continue working as usual.”

Boosting medical tourism

The expanded KFH is expected to play an important role in promoting Rwanda’s goal towards becoming a health tourism hub.

Besides achieving Universal Healthcare Coverage for all citizens, the country has an ambitious target of becoming a medical tourism hub where people from various parts of the continent and the world can access advanced healthcare services and training.

In line with this, the country is undertaking several efforts to develop its healthcare human resources, as well as establishing more infrastructure and bringing in the required equipment to facilitate training of the medics and treatment of the patients.