The award was by the Amref Health Africa Group, a leading African health International NGO which works to create Lasting Health Change. The award was received by Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Diane Gashumba.
The event organizers observed that Kagame had made bold decisions in conservation, investing in infrastructure and making Rwanda an attractive destination for visitors and investors.
The award was handed during the Inaugural 2019 Africa Health Agenda International Conference, where over 1500 world leaders, policymakers, civil society, technical experts, innovators, the private sector, researchers and youth advocates were gathered in Kigali, to address how Africa can accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) – and to map a pathway from commitment to action.
The Amref Health Africa Global Group CEO, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, told the press that among the several works of the group, the Amref Health Africa recognizes people who promote Universal Health Coverage in Africa.
“We thank His Excellency, President Paul Kagame. The UHC Presidential Champion Award recognizes outstanding leaders who promote Health for all. It is in this order that we chose to recognize his good leadership and efforts to provide Health for all in Rwanda,” Dr. Githinji Gitahi said
UHC improves people’s health, reduces poverty, and fuels economic growth. Yet, hundreds of millions of people around the world still do not have access to the essential health services they need to survive and thrive. Each year, 11 million Africans fall into poverty due to high out-of-pocket payments on health care. Moreover, critical gaps remain in access to and quality of essential health services, especially for vulnerable populations.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Diane Gashumba thanked the Amref Health for Africa for the award bestowed to the Head of State and assured that it will serve to increase the country’s efforts in improving Health around the country, including the increase of Hospitals, Health Centers and more.
She added that Rwanda has a lot that it’s planning to do regarding Health.
Rwanda is internationally recognized for its success in offering universal access to healthcare. With over 80% of Rwandans insured by the mutuelle de santé, Rwanda has ensured that her citizens have access to basic health care. The Country also currently operates a well-functioning, decentralized healthcare public service system comprising 1700 health posts, 500 health centers, 42 district hospitals and 5 national referral hospitals.
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