Rwanda seeks to become a medical tourism destination

Rwanda's leading state-owned healthcare provider, King Faisal Hospital, is on a mission to position itself as a regional hub for medical tourism. With a massive upgrade currently underway, the hospital is set to add more bed capacity and specialized services to attract patients from the region and beyond. Dr. Edgar Kalimba, Deputy CEO of King Faisal Hospital, shed light on the ambitious plan in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. The hospital has been a cornerstone of Rwanda's healthcare system, aiming to elevate its status to cater to the growing demand for quality medical services. Dr. Kalimba emphasized that the hospital has already been receiving patients from neighboring countries like the eastern part of Congo and Burundi for diagnostics and surgical procedures. This trend is expected to grow as the hospital continues to invest in infrastructure, equipment, and human resources to enhance its capabilities. The ongoing investment in King Faisal Hospital's upgrade is valued at around $20 million, with the first phase nearing completion at 97-98%. Dr. Kalimba highlighted that the hospital's focus on medical tourism aligns with Rwanda's broader strategy to position itself as a leading destination in various sectors. The COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges in 2020, with restrictions on travel and healthcare services. However, with the vaccine rollout in progress, the hospital is optimistic about a potential surge in patients seeking medical care from across the region. The hospital's business plan is centered on key medical sectors, including surgery, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, and interventional gastroenterology. Dr. Kalimba emphasized that the hospital has recruited specialized healthcare professionals to offer advanced services like minimally invasive surgery and organ transplants, particularly kidney transplants. The plan is to become a hub for organ transplants by 2024-2025, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for such procedures. Trust is a crucial factor in attracting medical tourists, and Dr. Kalimba highlighted the hospital's world-class facilities and patient-centered care approach as key reasons for patients to choose King Faisal Hospital. The hospital's commitment to providing exceptional medical services, coupled with Rwanda's reputation as a safe and attractive destination, aims to build trust among potential patients seeking healthcare in the region. Overall, King Faisal Hospital's vision to become a regional medical tourism hub reflects Rwanda's ambition to enhance its healthcare infrastructure and offer specialized care to a wider audience.