Four Rwandans graduated in ophthalmology at Rwanda International Institute of Ophthalmology (RIIO) in Kigali, on September 27, bringing the total number of locally trained and practicing eye care specialists in the country to 30.
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This marks an advancement in Rwanda’s medical workforce and aligns with the Ministry of Health’s 4x4 strategy which aims to quadruple the number of specialists across various medical fields within four years.
Innocent Habimana, the Eye Health Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator at Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), noted that developing local expertise will combat avoidable blindness in Rwanda.
"The fact that these graduates will be integrated into public hospitals is a testament to our commitment to enhancing access to eye care services and addressing the shortage of qualified ophthalmologists in the country,” Habimana stated during the graduation ceremony.
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Dr. Ciku Mathenge, the Chief Consultant Ophthalmologist and Programme Director at the RIIO School of Ophthalmology, noted that the graduating class includes four Rwandans and two international residents from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. She emphasised that RIIO has now trained 19 specialists, with plans to increase that number to 25 in the near future.
Mathenge pointed out that Rwanda’s embracing of innovative technology, particularly the use of artificial intelligence for diabetic retinopathy screening, positioned the country as a potential leader in utilising advanced technology to enhance healthcare outcomes.
However, she noted gaps in Rwanda’s eye care system. The include limited facilities and resources that lead to high operational costs.
"Many regions, especially in public hospitals, lack sufficient eye care professionals, which can hinder timely treatment for patients in need,” Mathenge stated.
She added that many individuals, particularly children, suffer from vision problems that could be prevented with early intervention and adequate screening.
"While there is potential for utilising advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, widespread adoption and training in these tools remain challenges.”
Mathenge stressed the need for more comprehensive research on eye care services in Rwanda to better understand and address systemic issues within the healthcare framework. She added that there should be more awareness campaigns aimed at promoting eye health and actively engaging communities, encouraging regular screenings and preventive care.