The Rwanda Nurses and Midwives Union(RNMU) successfully organized and participated in the International Nurses and Midwives Scientific Conference 2025 at Kigali Lemigo Hotel, held under the theme “Towards Universal Health Coverage(UHC): The Role of Nurses and Midwives in Strengthening Healthcare Systems in Developing Countries.” The conference brought together nurses, midwives, researchers, policymakers, academic leaders, and international partners to reflect on the vital contribution of nursing and midwifery to resilient and inclusive health systems. The conference commenced on December 10,2025, with registration, orientation, and participant accreditation. Delegates from Rwanda and across the globe arrived at the venue, completed registration, received conference materials, and familiarized themselves with the program and logistics, setting the stage for three days of knowledge exchange and collaboration.
On december11,2025, the conference officially opened with
high-level remarks, keynote
speeches, plenary sessions, panels, and oral abstract
presentations. RNMU President, Mr.
Andre GITEMBAGARA, delivered the welcome address, celebrating the remarkable growth of
Rwanda’s nursing and midwifery workforce — from fewer than 400 practitioners in the past to over 18,000 in 2025. He highlighted that this growth represents not only increased numbers but also improved quality of care, emphasizing that nurses and midwives remain the backbone of healthcare across all facilities in Rwanda.
The representative of the Ministry of Health reinforced this
message, acknowledging
Rwanda’s significant progress in reducing infectious diseases
through the efforts of nurses
and midwives. He noted that approximately 90% of healthcare
services are delivered at
community level through health posts, health centers, and community health workers. He also highlighted the ambitious “4 by 4 strategy,” which aims to quadruple the country’s
healthcare workforce within four years, and recognized RNMU’s collaboration in improving
working and living conditions for healthcare professionals.
The opening session was enriched by a Rwandan traditional dance performance (itorero)celebrating culture and unity.
Keynote presentations from ICN CEO Dr.Catton Howard and WHO Rwanda Representative Dr. Brian Chirombo emphasized the global importance of investing in nurses and midwives and their essential role in achieving universal health coverage.
Throughout the conference, delegates engaged in plenary sessions, panel discussions, and
scientific presentations covering topics such as breast cancer prevention, primary healthcare strengthening, leadership, policy, education, digital health, mental health, maternal care, palliative services, workforce resilience, and community empowerment. Researchers and practitioners shared insights on innovative approaches to improving health services and enhancing the capacity of nurses and midwives.
On december12,2025,discussions focused on leadership, innovation, education, and the path forward for nursing and midwifery. participants addressed emerging global challenges and emphasized the need for a resilient workforce to achieve Universal Health Coverage. the conference concluded with a closing plenary session featuring remarks from senior academic leaders and professionals, followed by the presentation of appreciation gifts to RNMU partners and contributors.
RNMU’s participation in this international scientific conference reflects its continued
dedication to professional growth, advocacy, and global engagement. The Union
remains
committed to strengthening nursing and midwifery practice through learning, collaboration and the promotion of high professional standard.
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