In an era of increasing health threats, it’s imperative to recognize the critical role of robust surveillance systems in safeguarding public health and achieving global health security. Rwanda is advancing an integrated, technology-enabled, and people-centered surveillance framework. This strategy focuses on early detection, rapid response, and containment of infectious diseases across human, domestic animal, and wildlife populations. By strengthening systems, fostering innovation, and investing in skilled professionals, Rwanda aims to establish a resilient surveillance architecture that meets international standards and responds decisively to public health threats.
Why Surveillance Matters
Surveillance is the backbone of outbreak preparedness. It helps us spot unusual health events, track disease trends, and launch responses quickly.
Objective
To improve capacity for early detection, rapid response, and containment of epidemics and pandemics through integrated and sustainable surveillance systems in both human and animal health sectors.
Key Strategic Interventions
- Scale up IBS and EBS systems across human, domestic animal, and wildlife populations.
- Strengthen routine data collection and community-level detection through interoperable surveillance platforms.
- Implement cutting-edge technologies (e.g. genomic sequencing, digital diagnostics) for antimicrobial resistance monitoring.
- Strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration across human and animal health for comprehensive AMR tracking.
- Upgrade and integrate electronic reporting systems across ministries and institutions.
- Streamline data flow from grassroots facilities to national response teams and international reporting bodies.
- Build capacity through targeted training in epidemiology, data analysis, outbreak detection, and response.
- Support ongoing professional development with mentorship and simulation exercises.
Targeted Performance Indicators
JEE Technical Areas Improved:
- Real-time surveillance: D.2.1 – D.2.4
- Reporting and communication: D.3.1 – D.3.2
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR): P.3.1 – P.3.2
- Zoonotic diseases: P.4.1
- Points of entry (PoE): PoE.1
