Rwanda’s Ministry of Health has entered a five-year partnership with global medical technology firm Siemens Healthineers to modernize healthcare infrastructure across the country, a move aimed at improving early diagnosis, treatment capacity, and workforce skills in public hospitals.
Under the Value Partnership, more than 230 advanced medical imaging systems will be deployed across 19 public hospitals, including CT scans, MRI machines, molecular imaging scanners, ultrasound systems, X-ray and mammography units, as well as cardiac catheterization laboratories (CathLabs).
The initiative aligns with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and the Fifth Health Sector Strategic Plan, which seeks to strengthen the health component of the National Strategy for Transformation.
According to the Ministry of Health, Rwanda continues to face a dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with NCDs accounting for about 50% of deaths in early 2019. The new partnership adopts a two-pronged approach—investing in advanced medical technology while strengthening the skills of healthcare professionals.
The deployment of modern diagnostic and therapeutic equipment is expected to expand access to healthcare services, reduce patient waiting times, improve diagnostic accuracy, and limit the need for repeat scans. Officials say it will also reduce the burden on patients who currently travel long distances to access specialized services.
Beyond equipment installation, the partnership places strong emphasis on capacity building, including nationwide training programs to upskill healthcare workers, improve staff retention, and integrate digital and automated solutions into healthcare delivery. More than 500,000 patients are expected to benefit annually from the initiative.
“This partnership with Siemens Healthineers marks a new era for healthcare in Rwanda,” said Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Health. “By combining world-class technology with robust training of healthcare professionals, we are building a sustainable, equitable, and high-quality health system that will serve our people for generations.”
Vivek Kanade, Head of Siemens Healthineers for the Middle East and Africa, described the agreement as a long-term commitment rather than a simple technology deal.
“Our Value Partnership is more than a technology agreement,” Kanade said. “It is a commitment to improve patient outcomes, strengthen local expertise, and foster innovation in healthcare delivery.”
The project also incorporates environmentally sustainable practices, including energy-efficient installations that can achieve up to 30% annual energy savings in some facilities and extending the lifespan of medical equipment through upgrades rather than full replacement.
The Ministry of Health says the partnership supports Rwanda’s ambition to become a regional medical tourism hub, by developing healthcare facilities that meet international standards while strengthening services for local patients.
