The first such deal was signed earlier this week with Kenya, following the strategy’s launch in September aimed at helping partner countries achieve greater self-reliance in health management.
According to the US State Department, the agreement outlines a comprehensive plan to improve Rwanda’s healthcare system, save lives and enhance disease preparedness, while also advancing American interests by contributing to global health security.
Under the deal, the United States will contribute up to $158 million to support Rwanda’s fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria and other infectious diseases, in addition to bolstering disease surveillance and outbreak response capabilities. Rwanda will increase its domestic health spending by $70 million as part of its commitment to taking on more financial responsibility as US assistance decreases over time.
The partnership also builds on Rwanda’s collaboration with Zipline, a drone-delivery company that transports vital medical supplies to remote areas.
Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Oliver Nduhungirehe, who signed the agreement with US officials in Washington, said the deal reflects the country’s goal of building a resilient, technology-driven health system.
The signing comes just a day after President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo reaffirmed their commitment to a US-mediated initiative aimed at ending conflict in eastern Congo.
