Advancing equitable access to care and strengthening workforce development for kidney health in Rwanda: National Symposium proceedings, March 15, 2024

Abstract

Kidney disease is a global health burden with significant economic and public health impacts. Rwanda’s Kidney Diseases Management Symposium was a national-level gathering aimed at discussing the outcomes of existing renal programs and exploring approaches to advance and ensure equitable access to care and optimal medication practice for kidney health in Rwanda. The symposium brought together over 100 healthcare providers, academicians, researchers, patient representatives, and policymakers across Rwanda. Presentations, discussions, and roundtable sessions took place on the epidemiological and management aspects of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease, which are the most common renal diseases among the Rwandan population. Breakthrough discussions also took place on the establishment and impact of kidney transplantation programs in Rwanda. A common understanding of the achievements in renal disease management in Rwanda made in the last decade was reached. The symposium highlighted the importance of raising community awareness about kidney diseases, enforcing preventive practices and early detection programs, optimizing the availability and accessibility of renal medications, developing a renal registry for real-world data and practice, and bridging the health workforce shortage through training. Renal initiatives in Rwanda are overall operating effectively, with significant national and institutional support and commitment. By fostering partnerships and intersectoral collaborations, Rwanda is well on its way to universal access to kidney care and a sufficient workforce to meet the needs of the population.