Mugonero Hospital was established in 1931 by Seventh-day Adventist missionaries at the Ngoma Mission. Over the years, its responsibilities expanded, and it now serves around 150,000 people from Karongi and Nyamasheke districts.
Many of the hospital buildings had become outdated, prompting the government, in partnership with the Adventist Church, to launch a phased renovation program. Renovated facilities include the children’s ward, maternity ward, and offices for staff and hospital management.
Mediatrice Umuhoza, a patient, told IGIHE that before the renovations, she worried about challenges associated with old buildings.
“During heavy rains, water would leak down the walls. Hospital beds were worn out and few, and with so many patients, it was a real challenge,” she said.
Jean Claude Mutuyimana, treated for bone-related illnesses, said receiving care had been difficult due to cramped and outdated facilities.
“Before the renovations, treatment here was challenging. We thank the government and partners for refurbishing the hospital. The main remaining challenge is the low number of doctors and nurses,” he said.
The Director General of the hospital, Mwumvaneza Mutagoma said more than Rwf 1 billion was spent on renovations, including Rwf 700 million for the maternity ward, Rwf 135 million for staff offices, and additional funds for the children’s ward.
“The remaining challenge is a shortage of medical staff, especially nurses and midwives. However, we are hopeful that more will be available soon, thanks to a program aimed at quadrupling the number of doctors over the next four years.
“We currently have six midwives out of the 19 needed, 41 nurses out of the 58 required, and no specialist doctors. The orthopedic doctor we had, a missionary, has left, and we are waiting for a replacement,” he explained.
Mugonero Hospital collaborates with nine health centers, seven in Karongi and two in Nyamasheke, and serves approximately 150,000 people.
The hospital has 130 beds and mainly treats patients for respiratory illnesses, bone diseases, infections caused by poor sanitation, and other common conditions.
