A collaborative effort between Rwanda and India is poised to usher in a transformative era for healthcare in Busanza, a once rural locality of Kigali. The Believers International Hospital and Research Centre, a state-of-the-art medical facility coupled with a medical college, aims not only to enhance healthcare accessibility in Rwanda but also to position the country as a prime destination for medical tourism.
Ground has broken for the initial phase of the project, which includes a 220-bed hospital and a medical college, expected to be completed within 15 months. Situated adjacent to the Believers Eastern Church in Busanza, Kicukiro District, this phase is slated for official inauguration by late 2025 or early 2026.
In an exclusive interview with The New Times, Rev. Jimmy John Simon, the Acting Legal Representative, expressed optimism that the Believers International Hospital and Research Centre would serve as a catalyst for medical advancement not only in Rwanda but also across the African continent. Simon emphasized the hospital’s potential to reduce the need for medical travel abroad, thus contributing significantly to Rwanda’s aspiration to become a medical hub.
The genesis of this ambitious venture traces back to 2018 when Ernest Rwamucyo, then Rwanda’s High Commissioner to India, extended an invitation to the Believers Eastern Church. Simon admitted initial skepticism about venturing into Africa but was swayed by the country’s remarkable progress under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
The project, originally envisioned in three phases, prioritized addressing the shortage of medical specialists and the high demand for advanced medical services. However, recognizing the urgency to bolster medical training, the decision was made to concurrently establish the hospital and the medical college.
Construction progress, led by Top Engineering Company, stands at approximately 38%, with plans to complete the civil engineering aspect by March 2025. Upon completion, the hospital will offer a wide array of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, neurosurgery, gastroenterology, and endocrinology, previously sought after abroad.
The Believers Eastern Church’s investment underscores Rwanda’s conducive environment for investment, characterized by good governance, security, and investor confidence. Dr. Andrew Nkurunziza, in charge of Public Relations and Administration, highlighted the project’s potential to position Rwanda as a medical hub, attracting patients from across the continent.
As construction progresses, the Believers International Hospital and Research Centre stand as a testament to the power of collaboration and vision in reshaping healthcare landscapes and fostering global partnerships in pursuit of better health outcomes.
