These services, which are generally unavailable in provincial hospitals, often require patients to travel to Kigali, where specialized professionals provide such treatments.
The surgery was performed by a team of experts from Germany. These specialists examined 40 people and performed surgeries on 25, including 17 individuals who received plastic surgery to correct various body deformities.
The event began on March 8th, with an expected end date of March 17th, 2026. However, it was concluded on March 13th due to the passing of one of the specialists’ child.
Among the patients treated were those with hypertrophic scars. Augustin Sibomana, who had a raised scar on his chest, was one of the beneficiaries of body contouring surgery.
“I had previously visited Kanombe Hospital but I was told that surgery was not possible because the scar might return. I am grateful to the Ministry of Health for thinking of us and sending these specialists. After the surgery, I feel much better and am hopeful that things will continue to improve,” he said.
Benimana Joyeuse, who had suffered from an enlarged abdomen for five years, expressed her gratitude to the specialists after her surgery. “I am so happy because I didn’t have the money to go to Kigali for treatment.”
Dr. Laura Thomara, who led the surgical team, mentioned that some of the patients had scars from previous burns. “We have shown our colleagues working here how they can treat such patients.”
Osée Ntavuka, the founder of Rwanda Legacy of Hope, an organization that has been bringing international specialists to Rwanda for 14 years to provide plastic surgery services, stated that over 8,500 patients have benefited from these services.
“When we come, we bring our own equipment. Here at Kibuye Hospital, we brought equipment worth 45 million Rwandan Francs, and after we finish, we will leave it for the hospital.”
Jean Claude Muhirwa, the head of the surgery department at Kibuye Referral Hospital, thanked the specialists for their knowledge and noted that the new equipment was different from what they normally use.
“This new equipment adds to what we already have here at Kibuye Referral Hospital, and it will help us deliver better services.”
Over the past 10 years, Kibuye Referral Hospital has seen a growth in the number of specialized surgeons, now totaling around 30, not including those who come temporarily.
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