Construction of the US$20 million Magdi Yacoub Heart Centre (MY Heart Centre) in Masaka, Kicukiro District, is progressing steadily, with completion expected in 2026.
The facility, which sits on 4.4 hectares, will include a 30-bed hospital, research laboratories, and advanced infrastructure dedicated to cardiovascular and vascular treatment and research.
The project began in late 2021 with the laying of the foundation stone by First Lady Jeannette Kagame.
During a recent meeting between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe and his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the construction is completed on schedule.
According to Minister Abdelatty, the project aligns with the vision of Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and will strictly follow the agreed construction timeline.
Prof. Sir Magdi Yacoub, founder of the organisation leading the initiative, said the Rwandan branch of the foundation will deliver world-class medical services and build capacity among young health professionals.
“The Rwanda Heart Care & Research Foundation will provide state-of-the-art medical treatment, particularly free of charge for underprivileged patients,” Prof. Yacoub said.
“It will also serve as a training hub for young doctors, nurses, and scientists, equipping them with internationally recognised expertise.”
Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Rwanda’s Vision 2050, particularly through sustainable development projects. In its statement, the ministry emphasised Egypt’s determination to promote peace and stability in the Great Lakes Region and foster Africa-led cooperation aimed at achieving self-reliance.
The ministry also praised the strengthening of relations between Kigali and Cairo, further consolidated during President Paul Kagame’s visit to Egypt in September 2025.
Both countries are planning to expand collaboration in pharmaceutical production, medical equipment manufacturing, medical tourism, textiles, food industries, and broader tourism development.
Rwanda, like many low-income countries, faces a shortage of specialised cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons. The Magdi Yacoub Heart Centre represents a significant step toward addressing this challenge.
Heart diseases remain among Rwanda’s leading health problems—ranging from coronary artery disease caused by fatty deposits, to congenital heart defects in children, and lifestyle-related conditions linked to smoking, alcohol consumption, and high-fat diets.
Once operational, the Magdi Yacoub Heart Centre will not only provide advanced treatment but will also serve as a regional training and research hub, contributing to Rwanda’s goal of building a self-reliant healthcare system and positioning the country as a growing destination for medical excellence in Africa.
