At Byumba Hospital in Gicumbi District, new mobile phones were officially handed over to Community Health Workers as part of the Rwanda Defence Force and Rwanda National Police community development programme aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.

The initiative seeks to strengthen the use of digital technology in delivering health services at the community level, enabling health workers to report cases more quickly, track patients, and coordinate better with health facilities.

The launch was officiated by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health Rwanda, Yvan Butera, alongside the Commander of Military Health Services, Ephrem Rurangwa.

Officials said the phones will help Community Health Workers use digital platforms to collect and share health data, follow up on patients in their communities, and respond faster to health concerns.

“Equipping Community Health Workers with mobile technology strengthens the connection between communities and the health system. These tools will help improve reporting, patient follow-up, and the overall delivery of healthcare services,” said Dr. Butera.

As part of the wider programme, specialist doctors will also be deployed to eight hospitals across the country to provide surgical and other specialised medical services, further expanding access to advanced healthcare for Rwandans.

By Andrew shyaka