A delegation headed by Southern Sudan Minister of Health Dr. Riek Gai Kok visited Rwanda Ministry of Health to get firsthand experience on the Rwanda Health systems. Between 16-21 April 2018, the delegation got an overview of the health sector structure, procedure of securing and keeping drugs, how Rwanda Biomedical Centre operates as well as different practices that have made the Rwanda Health Sector successful.  Health Minister Dr. Diane Gashumba announced that the duo would discuss partnership around knowledge exchange, among others.

“Health is the key; a strong health system gives the confidence of a stable future. Rwanda thanks for sharing with us, we cannot develop our health system without learning from others,” said South Sudan Health Minister.

“Rwanda will always be our role model, basing on all we have learnt during this visit,” he added.

During the study tour, Dr. Riek Gai Kok accompanied Rwanda Minister of Health Dr. Diane Gashumba to launch the Rwanda Defense Force Citizen Outreach 2018 on 20th in Rwamagana District.

During the 3 month long annual outreach that ends on liberation day, free health services are accorded to Rwandans countrywide and several operations are performed on patients diagnosed with various complications. Beside health care during the Army Week, RDF engages in construction of public infrastructure, support farmers in growing essential crops, rehabilitate roads and bridges.

At the RDF campaign launch, Dr. Gashumba showcased the role of customer care in ensuring patient satisfaction. “The Rwanda Defense Forces should give us an example of how first and dedicated medics should be in providing the lifesaving health services,” said Dr. Gashumba.

South Sudan Minister was thrilled by the RDF services and the overall visit, “Rwanda has given us hope that also in South Sudan we are going to overcome health challenges we meet in Southern Sudan.”

The successful programs South Sudan takes from Rwanda include; Maternal Health implementation, Combating Malaria and Tuberculosis, Universal Health coverage, HIV/AIDs control initiatives, Medical product procurement and supply chain, Community Health Workers initiatives among others.