Even though the national neurosurgical centre is up and running, it needs medical equipment worth US$700,000 (about Rwf385m) to become an ultra-modern facility.

According to Dr Emmanuel Nkusi, the Coordinator of Rwanda Neurosurgical Centre(RNC), at least two vital equipment are needed, including neuro-navigator, which costs about $400,000(about Rwf 220m), and a microscope used in operations, valued at about $300,000(about Rwf165m).

"We have some equipment in place but we need to upgrade the centre and make it a little more sophisticated,” said Dr Nkusi, adding that a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was already on its way and it should be functioning by September.

The MRI is used to detect structural abnormalities in the human body. It provides an unparalleled view inside the human body.

Asked if the centre has already raised some funds for the required equipment, Nkusi said that some partners are committed to work tirelessly to see the centre developed.

He said several top western universities were helping in modernizing the centre, while several local companies have expressed interest in sponsoring RNC.

The centre, based at King Faisal Hospital, has developed a central system that coordinates neurosurgical activities between major hospitals in Rwanda.

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