R3 equipments handover with Nexleaf and RBC
Strengthening Rwanda’s Vaccine Cold Chain, One Tool at a Time
Masoro Special Economic Zone, Kigali. Today marked an important milestone in Rwanda’s immunization journey as We for Health, represented by Vianney Bikurugu, Biomedical Engineer, and Faustin Gasaza, R3 Project Manager, officially handed over 46 packs of Cold Chain Equipment (CCE) maintenance tools to the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC). The delivery was received by Hassan Sibomana, Director of the Vaccine Program Unit, in the presence of Moses Kasigazi, Nexleaf Country Manager.
The handover took place at the RBC/EPI warehouse in Masoro, under the framework of the Rapid Response and Repair (R3) Project, supported by the Rapid Response Fund (RRF).
Following a nationwide inventory of vaccine cold chain equipment, the project procured specialized maintenance tools, including manifold gauge sets, clamp meters, and refrigerator maintenance toolboxes, to strengthen the capacity of District Hospital Biomedical Technicians. These tools will enable technicians to diagnose, maintain, and repair vaccine refrigeration equipment more effectively.
By improving preventive maintenance and reducing equipment downtime, the tools will ensure the continuous availability of potent vaccines through a reliable cold chain system. This milestone underscores Rwanda’s commitment to safeguarding every vaccine dose and protecting every child.
The initiative reflects strong collaboration between We for Health, Nexleaf Analytics, Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), and the Ministry of Health, all working together to reinforce Rwanda’s immunization program and build a more resilient healthcare system.
“Together, we are investing in sustainable solutions that protect every vaccine and every life,” the partners emphasized during the ceremony.
A highlight of the workshop was the launch of the R3 Playbook, a practical guide covering the entire Cold Chain Equipment (CCE) lifecycle from procurement to decommissioning. The Playbook defines clear roles, workflows, and data use practices at national, district, and facility levels.
“With the right systems, financing, and training, vaccine cold chains can remain reliable and responsive,” emphasized Dr. Mwali during the launch. “This workshop ensures these gains are sustained long after the project ends.”
Participants also developed a sustainability roadmap to integrate R3 innovations into Rwanda’s national cold chain management system, focusing on workforce capacity, institutional ownership, sustainable financing, and data‑driven decision making. “We’re not just sharing results—we’re building institutional ownership and defining how these systems will thrive in the years ahead,” noted Dr. Kato Kimbugwe, Country Director of Vanguard Economics.
The workshop concluded with firm commitments to institutionalize R3 innovations and embed preventive maintenance into health facility culture and operations. The R3 Initiative’s demonstrated success provides a replicable model for other countries seeking to strengthen immunization infrastructure while building local technical capacity and sustainable systems.
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