On August 9th, 2024, We For Health was officially launched at Marriott Hotel in Kigali. The event was a significant milestone for our organization, which is dedicated to reducing maternal and infant mortality in Rwanda. We were honored to be joined by various stakeholders in the healthcare sector, both local and international, including medical professionals, staff, and partners. This moment marked the beginning of our shared journey to make a tangible impact on the lives of mothers, infants, adolescents, and youth across the country.

Our founder, Dr. Kayinamura Mwali Assumpta, emphasized We For Health’s desire to support Rwanda’s Ministry of Health in addressing the critical gaps in healthcare services for vulnerable populations. Our mission is simple yet profound: to reduce the number of mothers who die during childbirth and the number of infants who die at birth by equipping healthcare workers with the skills and knowledge they need to provide excellent care.

In Rwanda today, for every 100,000 live births, 200 mothers die. Additionally, thousands of newborns suffer from respiratory issues immediately after birth, with this condition alone responsible for 40% of newborn deaths within the first 28 days. In 2024, a staggering 4,585 newborns required medical intervention to assist with breathing, and sadly, 310 mothers lost their lives while giving birth.

At We For Health, we are committed to addressing these challenges head-on. Our team provides practical training to healthcare workers, especially those who are just entering the field, to ensure they can offer the highest level of care to mothers and infants. We focus on helping healthcare professionals utilize life-saving equipment, such as ventilators for newborns, and educating them on best practices in maternal care and pediatric health.

In addition to maternal and infant care, we recognize the importance of supporting adolescents and teenagers. We For Health is actively working to educate this group on preventing unplanned pregnancies and ensuring that they have access to the necessary health services and knowledge to thrive.

Although we have been operating for nine months in Nyarugenge District, our vision is much broader. We plan to expand our reach to health centers and hospitals across the country, such as Nyarurenzi and Biryogo, ensuring that our services benefit all Rwandans.

As we work closely with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health, we share the goal of reducing maternal and infant mortality by 50% by 2050. We know that this is a lofty goal, but through our collective efforts, we believe it is achievable. Together with our partners and dedicated healthcare workers, we are confident that We For Health will make a lasting difference.

Dr. Menelas Nkeshimana, Director of Education and Workforce Development at the Ministry of Health, emphasized how important it is to address maternal and infant mortality, and we are proud to stand alongside the Ministry in this mission. By empowering healthcare workers with the necessary skills and resources, we are confident that we can create a healthier, safer future for mothers and their children.

At We For Health, we are not just addressing today’s challenges – we are shaping a healthier tomorrow for all. We are excited for what lies ahead and are grateful to have you on this journey with us. Together, we will make a difference.

Read more on IGIHE.COM.