Rwanda this week hosts the 59th conference of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa. More than four hundred people are attending the session, with delegates coming from 46 countries.

WHO Director General Dr. Margaret Chan attends the meeting. (Internet photo)

However, Health Minister Dr. Richard Sezibera pointed out that the Session is not about Rwanda in particular, so they will not be discussing the national situation. “The advantage we have is that we will be meeting with different states and sharing ideas which we may use to improve our health system,” Sezibera explained.

The Minister also pointed out that the Session is a great opportunity for Rwanda to improve a great deal not only in the health Sector, but also economically, stressing that it would be a great investment to the country. The meeting was also expected to address issues concerning strengthening outbreak-preparedness and response in the context of the current global H1N1 flue pandemic.

According to Dr. Jack Abduounie, WHO representative in Rwanda, member states volunteer to host the conference, by presenting its proposal to the council, which is done two years in advance. This time around it is Rwanda’s turn to host the Conference after her proposal was accepted two years ago.

According to Abduounie, Rwanda has registered a steady progress in its health system, compared to other countries, which is why it deserved to host the session. “Rwanda has demonstrated its ability in its attempt to bring health services to the doorstep of her citizens, in addition to the medical insurance scheme which has been well established in the country,” the WHO representative said.

Accordingly, the session will give Rwanda a chance to showcase its success in accessing health services.

Among the dignitaries attending the conference are senior WHO officials including the WHO Director General, Dr. Margaret Chan, the Regional Director, Dr. Luis Sambo, and WHO representatives in the African Region, Representatives of UN Agencies, and other partners working to improve the health condition in Africa, among others.