Dear readers,
I'm pleased to present this special edition of the Rwanda Public Health Bulletin(RPHB), which compiles the abstracts from the 2024 health Research and Policy Conference. This year's conference, held from 20-21, 2024, at the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali Rwanda, brought together a diverse group of professionals from the health sector, including researchers, policymakers, clinicians, and development partners. Under the theme, "Advancing Research for Healthy Rwanda," the conference highlighted the essential role of research in addressing pressing public health challenges and informing policy decisions that will shape Rwanda's future health landscape.
The abstracts featured in this publication represent the forefront of the health research in Rwanda. They address key health priorities, including infectious diseases, maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases, mental health, and the launch of two significant national frameworks- the National Health Research Agenda(2024-2029) and the National Strategic Plan or Research Innovation and Data Science(2024-2029). These strategic documents underscore Rwanda's commitment to leveraging research and innovation to drive improvements in health outcomes across the nation.
The research presented during this conference is a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of Rwanda's health research community. The abstracts reflect the breadth of research being conducted across various disciplines and highlight the critical role that evidence-based practices will play in overcoming the challenges that continue to affect our health system. This publication is not just a collection of scientific findings, it is a reflection of Rwanda's strong commitment to building a healthier, more resilient future
I extend my gratitude to all researchers, partners, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the 2024 Health Research and Policy Conference and the development of this special issue. I am confident that the knowledge shared here will inspire further collaboration, inform policy decisions, and contribute to the ongoing transformation of Rwanda's health system.
