RUBAVU - The Minister of Health, Dr. Richard Sezibera, has commended the achievements in the health sector as a perfect springboard to providing quality healthcare.

He said this yesterday while opening the Joint Health Sector Review (JHSR) in Rubavu District.

"Accomplishments in the health sector should be used as a launch pad to provide better health services and accelerating social economic development,” Sezibera said.

"We are here to examine the performance of the health sector, develop strategies and mechanisms aimed at building a robust and efficient system that targets delivery of quality healthcare to the average Rwandan,” he said.

Dr. Sezibera disclosed that tangible results have been attained in areas like fighting against HIV/AIDS, TB, Malaria, and reduction of Maternal and Child deaths.
"We have surpassed the Maternal Child health target in EDPRS, this is attributed to maternal death audits, good coordination and collaboration with the community, local authorities and Community Health Workers,” he said.

According to the Sezibera, in order to offer first class care, the ministry will continue to invest in medical research, human resource and ICT, through strengthening e-Health.
"We want to set our standards to meet those of developed nations, our health centres should be able to offer a complete healthcare package,” he said.

Some of the accomplishments registered in the health sector include reducing infant mortality from 86/1000 to 62/1000, under five mortality from 152 to 103/1000, Malaria morbidity and mortality have reduced by over 60% and the HIV/AIDS prevalence is less than 3%, down from 11% in the year 2000.

The Private sector is increasingly involved in the provision of healthcare through the construction of private hospitals and clinics.  Sixty percent (60%) of Rwandans now live within five km of a health facility and 85 percent live within 10 km. 

Currently, Rwanda has one doctor for every 18,000 people, and one nurse for every 1,700.

Ends