MUSANZE - The Minister of Health, Dr. Agnes Binagwaho, has called for concerted efforts to fight malnutrition among children and other health challenges facing the Northern Province.

Binagwaho, was speaking at a regional forum which drew local authorities and directors of health facilities in the province.

The meeting will discuss health challenges, especially health insurance, family planning, malnutrition, and design ways of improving service delivery.

"What we have discovered is that we need proper planning. This forum brings us together to share experiences, especially the best practices, and where we should improve. The role of local leaders is crucial, especially in sensitisation [campaigns],’’ Binagwaho said.

The province has instituted a ‘Health Insurance Week’ to sensitise local communities about the need for health insurance.

Only 36 percent of residents in the province have health insurance cover.

Governor Aime Bosenibamwe, called upon health workers and local authorities to begin a serious family planning and health insurance sensitisation campaign.

"By the end of November, we want to be above 90 percent in communal health insurance coverage. Musanze is now at 28 percent, Burera 27 percent, there is need for an awareness campaign,” Bosenibamwe said.

The meeting discussed problems affecting health workers, and commitments were made to improve service delivery.
 
Binagwaho later toured Ruhengeri Hospital, and held discussions with medics on how to improve services.

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