On November 5, 2025, in Kirehe District, the foundation stone was laid for the Nyarubuye Medicalized Health Center, which was formerly a regular health center. The upgraded facility, expected to be completed around August 2026 at a cost of 5 billion Rwandan francs, will significantly benefit both refugees and local residents.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, Denmark’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Casper Stenger Jensen, a representative from the World Bank, and district leaders. The new facility, located in Nyarubuye Sector, will operate at the level of a “Centre de santé médicalisé,” providing hospital-level services with specialized doctors.
The project is part of the Jya Mbere program, funded by the World Bank and supported by the Government of Denmark through DANIDA, aiming to improve the welfare of refugees and host communities. The health center will include two surgical rooms, maternity and delivery wards, a neonatal care unit, diagnostic and emergency services, and 110 hospital beds.
Chantal Rutazarira, a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo living in Mahama Camp, expressed gratitude, saying: “We’re happy to benefit from development projects like citizens. Access to healthcare will now be easier and reduce congestion at Kirehe District Hospital. We thank the Government of Rwanda for continuously improving our healthcare.”
Edson Mugemanyi, a resident of Nyarubuye Sector, added: “Having this facility here is invaluable. We used to travel far and spend much money for surgeries and maternal care. Now these services will be closer and more affordable.”
Ambassador Casper Stenger Jensen praised the cooperation between Rwanda and Denmark, saying: “Today marks a big step forward in improving healthcare. This hospital will enhance medical services and support Rwanda’s goals under NST2 to fight malnutrition and promote good health.”
Minister Murasira emphasized that the project was designed to serve both refugees and surrounding communities near Mahama Camp, stating: “As MINEMA, we aim to support refugees and their hosts to achieve self-reliance. This hospital is a tangible contribution to improving health and wellbeing.”
The new medicalized center will serve residents from Nyarubuye, Mahama, Nyamugari, Nasho, and Mushikiri sectors. Its construction will be followed by a new road linking Kigina, Nyarubuye, and Nasho to ease access to healthcare services.
The officials laid the foundation stone for the construction of the hospital.
