Rwanda is widely recognised for its effective response to health emergencies. COVID-19, mpox and the 2024 Marburg outbreak were all contained quickly, with low case fatality. This success rests on skilled professionals and on fast, reliable information.

As health needs evolve, the country is investing to deepen its pool of public health expertise and to ensure that timely, high-quality data reaches decision-makers. Sustaining these strengths means outbreaks are detected earlier, policies are grounded in evidence, and skilled professionals can build their careers in Rwanda, to the benefit of all communities, and of mothers and children in particular.

TRIBE-HUB (Transforming Rwanda’s Biomedical Centre into an Excellence Hub for National and Regional Public Health) responds to this ambition. The project supports the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), the national public health institute, which already tracks diseases, manages health data and advises on policy. Based in Kigali, it also reaches regional offices in Rwamagana, Karongi, Huye and Musanze.

The project aims to make RBC a centre of excellence for Rwanda and the wider region, so that decisions rest on solid evidence and people receive faster, better care. It does so by:

Everyone in Rwanda stands to benefit, regardless of age or gender. Health workers, managers, researchers and students gain new skills and better tools. Patients receive care informed by better information. Health leaders can call on solid evidence before they decide, and outbreaks can be spotted and stopped earlier.

The number of health facilities using electronic medical records is expected to grow from about 270 to nearly 600. More Rwandan research will shape national policy, and other African countries will be able to learn from Rwanda’s experience.

Enabel manages the project in partnership with three Rwandan public institutions: the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, the Ministry of Health and the University of Rwanda. District hospitals, health managers and community health workers are also closely involved. Working through national institutions ensures that skills and systems remain in Rwanda long after the project ends.

A stronger public health institute protects every community, today and in the next health crisis. TRIBE-HUB contributes to national goals, including fewer maternal deaths and less child stunting. The project is fully financed by the European Union, with a budget of EUR 4.2 million.