Rwanda-based IRCAD Africa Trains Over 300 African Surgeons in Minimally Invasive Surgery

Rwanda-based IRCAD Africa has made significant strides in bridging the gap between high and low-income countries in the use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The centre has trained over 300 African surgeons in MIS, a modern medical technology that minimizes pain and trauma on patients, allowing for shorter hospital stays, lower risk of bleeding and infection, and speedy recovery.

IRCAD Africa, the only centre on the continent that deals in research and training, was inaugurated in Rwanda to help train Africa’s next generation of medical professionals in MIS. The centre’s managing director, David Kamanda, emphasized that IRCAD Africa is a surgery area where high-tech instruments are used to perform surgical operations.

Kamanda highlighted that over 95% of the African population lacks access to medical and surgical procedures, making IRCAD Africa a crucial solution for the continent. The centre has trained surgeons from 25 countries on the continent and beyond, with Rwanda chosen as the host country due to its global rankings, safety, and internet connectivity.

Founded in 1994, IRCAD has become a world leader in advancing and teaching MIS. The introduction of MIS in low- and middle-income countries is expected to reduce mortality associated with surgery in hospitals with poor health facilities.

IRCAD Africa is a branch of IRCAD France, and at the launch last year, Rwandan President Paul Kagame hailed the initiative, encouraging continued investment in public health infrastructure.

Dr. Anel Lengton, a general surgeon from South Africa, praised IRCAD Africa as an invaluable tool, providing practitioners with more access and opportunities to practice real-time on actual tissue. Dr. Omeke Joseph Chigozie, a general surgeon from Nigeria, is currently training at IRCAD for laparoscopic procedures, including hernias and colorectal surgeries.

The centre’s efforts have been met with enthusiasm, with Dr. Chigozie stating that IRCAD Africa is developing heroes and legends who will make a significant impact not only in Rwanda and Africa but globally.

IRCAD Africa’s commitment to bridging the gap in medical technology and training is a significant step towards improving healthcare outcomes in Africa and beyond.