Empowering Health Leaders: How Rwanda’s Cebe Project Is Revamping the Nation’s Healthcare System

Many individuals in Rwanda who live with disabilities find that access to assistive devices makes all the difference between relying on others and being self-sufficient, as well as between feeling alone and having chances for growth. These transformative solutions are supported by an increasing number of trained healthcare workers committed to assisting people in recovering movement, respect, and self-assurance.

Among them is Jackline Mupenzi Gatsinzi, whose professional journey has been driven by a dedication to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Her path started in 2014 when she joined an Advanced Diploma program in Prosthetics and Orthotics at the University of Rwanda, motivated by a wish to support individuals in overcoming physical challenges using assistive devices. This chance was made possible by the East African Regional Center of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and e-Health (CEBE) funded by the African Development Bank, allowing her to move from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s level. This experience improved Gatsinzi's technical abilities, expanded her knowledge, and increased her capacity to aid those relying on assistive technologies.

Following her graduation in 2017, Gatsinzi began working at the University of Rwanda as a clinical teacher within the Prosthetics and Orthotics Division, playing a role in delivering rehabilitative care and educating upcoming professionals.

This chance went beyond enhancing my academic journey; it broadened my knowledge, improved my abilities, and strengthened my dedication to supporting individuals with disabilities. Gatsinzi stated, "I now possess the resources necessary to create a more significant influence, enhancing people's lives and supporting the health and vitality of our neighborhoods."

While working with patients, Gatsinzi witnessed directly how well-designed prosthetic and orthotic equipment can change people's lives. People who had lost their ability to move found new freedom. Kids could go to school more conveniently. Adults went back to their jobs and active participation in society. However, she also realized the necessity of having more professionals to handle the increasing need for high-quality rehabilitation support.

Currently, Jackline works as a licensed prosthetist and orthotist, along with being an assistant lecturer and head of the department at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences within the University of Rwanda. She develops approaches that enhance movement and daily function for individuals living with disabilities, while also guiding and educating upcoming experts in the field. Her contributions have effects that go well beyond personal patients, influencing families, entire communities, and tomorrow’s medical practitioners.

Her narrative symbolizes a larger shift occurring within Rwanda’s healthcare system. By offering specialized education and skill-building programs, CEBE has cultivated almost 200 proficient graduates in biomedical engineering, e-health, and associated disciplines, with over 400 healthcare workers gaining hands-on experience in managing medical devices and digital health technologies. These individuals are supporting hospitals and clinics in maintaining essential medical tools, enhancing service efficiency, and ensuring that patients get prompt, high-quality treatment.

According to Peter Malinga, chief social economist at the Bank's office in Rwanda And the CEBE project task manager, the project's influence extends far beyond just training people.

CEBE is supporting the development of a new wave of well-trained biomedical engineers and digital health experts who are enhancing medical care throughout Rwanda and the surrounding area. Above all, it is establishing sustainable solutions that will elevate the standard of healthcare provided to local populations.

For Jackline, the initiative goes beyond career growth. It signifies a commitment to individuals—those who receive support and those dedicated to providing it.

"By means of initiatives such as the Centre of Excellence, the African Development Bank is cultivating a new group of experts prepared to address our continent's issues through creativity, empathy, and strength," she stated.

© 2026 African Development Bank. All rights reserved. Published by AllAfrica Global Media (Ants).

Tagged: Economy, Business and Finance, Rwanda, Health and Medicine, Innovation, ICT and Telecom, Central Africa, East Africa

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**"Statins Save Lives: Giving Obese Adults Healthy Hearts"**

A recent study discovered that medications like statins are enabling overweight middle-aged individuals to maintain cholesterol and blood pressure readings comparable to people who have a normal weight.

Scientists discovered that the blood pressure and cholesterol readings of individuals aged 40 and above were "virtually identical" to those of people who maintained a normal weight.

In certain instances, individuals who are obese were considered "better off," according to researchers.

Authorities believe the result is mainly attributed to the usage of medicines that reduce cholesterol, like statins, and treatments for lowering blood pressure — both of which are frequently taken by individuals who are overweight.

A research paper featured in The Lancet analyzed information from nearly one million individuals aged 20 to 79 across seven high-income nations, such as England and the United States, spanning from 1990 to 2024.

Previously, overweight adults had a greater chance of experiencing elevated blood pressure and increased amounts of harmful cholesterol.

However, the research indicates that disparities in harmful cholesterol levels and blood pressure among elderly individuals have 'reduced or vanished' for people aged 40 and above.

Statin medications became available across the NHS in the late 1990s and are currently used by eight million adults in Britain.

Experts stated that the results are significant for "providing an image of cardiovascular health" among individuals who may receive prescriptions. weight-loss drugs that have seen a swift rise in demand.

They cautioned that it was crucial not to "ignore" the results as more individuals opt for obesity-fighting drugs.

Professor Majid Ezzati, affiliated with the School of Public Health at Imperial College London, stated: "Our research indicates that in developed nations, using drugs to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol has enabled middle-aged and elderly individuals to decrease their heart disease risk to rates comparable to those with a healthy weight."

As weight-loss drugs become increasingly common, our findings provide insight into the heart health of individuals who may receive these medications, enabling the healthcare system to assess how therapies for high blood pressure and cholesterol complement weight-loss treatments within the general population.

The research also looked into data regarding the usage of medications that lower cholesterol and treatments for high blood pressure, referred to as antihypertensive drugs.

The group discovered that poor cholesterol levels and high blood pressure "decreased with time," particularly in individuals aged 40 and above.

The decreases were more significant for individuals who had obesity, resulting in a blending of these risk factors between those with obesity and those with a normal weight in people over the age of 40.

In describing the pattern, the research stated: "We observed that variations in non-HDL cholesterol and systolic blood pressure between individuals who are obese and those with a healthy BMI became smaller or vanished, particularly among elderly people, at times rendering those with and without obesity similar concerning these cardiovascular metabolic characteristics."

A member of the research group, Professor Edward Gregg affiliated with Imperial College London, emphasized that "this does not imply that obesity no longer raises your likelihood of experiencing other health issues."

At the same time, the research revealed that among adults younger than 40, individuals who were overweight continued to exhibit elevated levels of harmful cholesterol and increased blood pressure.

Writer Yse d'Ailhaud de Brisis, affiliated with Imperial College London, stated: "Although this is positive news for elderly individuals who are overweight, our findings indicate that cardiovascular risk factors continue to be greater among those below 40 compared to people of average weight."

Initial lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and, if necessary, drug treatment for this younger population should be taken into account to avoid lasting heart-related issues associated with being overweight.

In the meantime, Lakshya Jain, from the School of Public Health at Imperial College London, stated: "This recent study indicates that the narrowing differences in cholesterol and blood pressure readings among individuals over 40 who are obese compared to those with a typical BMI can mostly be attributed to statins and other commonly available drugs aimed at lowering heart disease risks."

That represents an important achievement in public health, something we must remember as emerging obesity treatments become available.

In response to the research, Professor Bryan Williams, who serves as the chief scientific and medical officer at the British Heart Foundation, stated: "This study showcases an impressive achievement in public health — demonstrating how significantly improved current therapies for hypertension and cholesterol have been, leading many individuals over 40 with obesity to attain levels comparable to those of healthier weights."

This reflects the effectiveness of approaches aimed at preventing heart diseases, the application of affordable and very successful medications, and the significance of individuals following their prescriptions.

However, we should not overlook the broader perspective.

These drugs are required due to the negative impact of obesity on the likelihood of developing heart-related conditions.

Furthermore, obesity continues to impact the body in numerous additional ways, raising the likelihood of various health issues such as diabetes, renal disease, and certain types of cancer.

Therefore, although this advancement is positive, halting and decreasing obesity could lead to various health improvements, often eliminating the necessity for these extra medications.

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Sudan Calls on IAEA to Aid Reconstruction of War-Devastated Cancer Centers

June 10, 2026 (VIENNA) – On Tuesday, a Sudanese representative urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to assist Sudan in reviving cancer diagnosis and therapy facilities at state-run centers impacted by conflict, as well as aid in setting up three additional centers.

The healthcare infrastructure of Sudan, which had previously experienced insufficient funding and lack of supplies, has undergone extensive damage as a result of the fighting that began in April 2023. Medical facilities have been robbed, and healthcare workers have been forced to leave their positions.

Magdi Ahmed Mofadal, Sudan's ambassador to the United Nations and head of the country's delegation at international bodies in Vienna, expressed these comments during his attendance at the IAEA Board of Governors session taking place between June 8 and 12, 2026.

The Department of State mentioned in a press release that Mofadal called on the organization and participating countries to back Sudan's initiatives aimed at reviving cancer diagnosis and therapy facilities in areas impacted by conflict, such as the National Cancer Institute located in Wad Madani, Khartoum's Radiological and Isotope Center, and Shendi University.

The declaration mentioned that the envoy sought support from the IAEA and participating nations to assist in setting up three additional facilities in remote regions.

Mofadal shared updates regarding the initiative to revive radiotherapy facilities at the National Cancer Institute in Wad Madani, stating that the initial stage has now been finished. Continuous efforts are being made to acquire diagnostic and radiotherapy machinery, such as a linear accelerator for the facility.

The institution, which had its equipment stolen after the Rapid Support Forces took control of Gezira state, is among the most essential centers for cancer care in Sudan. It once treated hundreds of patients each day from neighboring regions such as Khartoum and was recognized for offering high-quality free medical services.

Mofadal also called on IAEA member countries, along with regional and global financial organizations, to back the "Atoms for Food" program, initiated by the organization in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization.

He mentioned that Sudan anticipates welcoming a technical team from the IAEA to evaluate the condition of the Atomic Energy Commission and associated national organizations, identify their immediate requirements, and create a strategy for restoration and skill development in areas such as farming, animal husbandry, fishing, water management, and food security.

The Foods from Atoms program seeks to offer nations customized, innovative approaches through the use of nuclear technology to increase agricultural output, strengthen environmental conservation, minimize food loss, elevate dietary quality, and address the impacts of climate change.

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NHIA Pushes for Health Insurance on Driver Licenses and Vehicle Records to Boost Crash Victim Care

CHIDI UGWU

The head of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, has suggested an alliance with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) designed to enhance urgent medical care for individuals involved in road accidents by incorporating health insurance details into driver's license and car registration procedures.

During a formal visit to the Corps Marshal of FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, Dr. Ohiri suggested the initiative, highlighting that the partnership would enable quick determination of the health insurance details of accident victims and remove the administrative delays typically linked with obtaining urgent medical care.

As stated in a document authored by Osondu Ohaeri, the Deputy Corps Commander, Ohiri, who serves as the Corps Public Education Officer, mentioned that this program aims to guarantee that those affected get immediate medical care without facing monetary barriers during their rescue and treatment.

In response, the Corps Marshal expressed approval of the suggestion and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for naming Dr. Ohiri as Director-General of NHIA, referring to him as "a perfect fit for the role."

He pointed out that the FRSC, serving as the primary authority for traffic control and road safety regulation in Nigeria, continues to support programs aimed at improving the security and well-being of all road users throughout the nation.

The Chief of Staff stated that every FRSC clinic across the country is recognized as a certified medical facility and mentioned that the creation of FRSC Health Maintenance Limited aimed at incorporating the whole road transportation system into cost-effective health insurance.

He stated that the initiative focuses on transportation companies, drivers, and individuals belonging to road transport unions, with an estimated total number exceeding 10 million across the country.

He also mentioned that FRSC maintains a registry containing over 12 million licensed drivers and is open to collaborating with NHIA so that enrolling in health insurance becomes part of obtaining or renewing a driver's license. This partnership, according to him, would ensure better safety, increased availability of emergency medical services, and timely assistance for accident victims regardless of their economic situation during the rescue.

The Chief of Staff also conveyed the Corps' willingness to collaborate with NHIA in integrating National Health Insurance information into passenger lists and other transportation documents, aiming to enhance emergency response systems and improve medical services within the road transport industry.

Emphasizing FRSC's long-term dedication to post-accident assistance, the Corps Marshal pointed out that the organization was the pioneer in Nigeria to create an specialized ambulance system along with emergency medical stations positioned at high-risk accident areas throughout the nation, reinforcing its devotion to protecting lives on Nigerian highways.

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