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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