Women have been at the forefront of Rwanda’s healthcare sector for the past three decades, making significant contributions to the country’s health system. As Rwanda celebrated International Women’s Day in 2024, President Kagame highlighted the pivotal role that women have played in various sectors, including healthcare.
The Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF) emphasized the increasing number of female doctors and health specialists in Rwanda, leading to improved accessibility and quality of healthcare services. Women make up the majority of civil servants in the healthcare industry, with more than half of workers in health centers being women.
Despite the progress, there is still a disparity in the distribution of specialists, with men dominating higher-ranking positions. However, women healthcare workers have been instrumental in improving maternal and child care services, reducing maternal deaths, and providing essential care to the community.
One of the key figures in Rwanda’s healthcare sector is Rose Kankindi Gahire, who has been advocating for improved patient care and palliative services since 1998. Gahire’s dedication and commitment have positively impacted countless patients and colleagues, highlighting the importance of women in healthcare leadership roles.
However, women in healthcare face challenges such as work-life balance, lack of mentorship, and a hostile work environment. Dr. Odile Murekatete, a senior gynecologist, emphasizes the need for more training and empowerment of women in healthcare to provide better services, especially in detecting and treating conditions affecting women.
Dr. Olive Mukeshimana, a doctor at Kibagabaga Hospital, echoes the sentiment of passion over money, emphasizing the satisfaction of seeing patients heal and recover. The World Health Organization’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, recognizes the invaluable contribution of women to healthcare and advocates for gender equality and empowerment in the sector.
As Rwanda continues to invest in women and accelerate progress in healthcare, the message is clear: women are equal partners with men in all aspects of healthcare, deserving of leadership positions based on merit and creating a safe and inclusive environment free from discrimination and violence.
