Rwanda and Covid-19-Leadership and resilient health system – Book Chapter

Rwanda is among the countries in the world that have been able to minimize the risks and consequences of Covid-19. The Rwandan government implemented preventive, control and management interventions, resulting in a very low number of Covid-19 cases. Driving factors include innovative strategies, strong and responsive government, leadership and commitment, communication and community engagement as well as strong and resilient health care systems. As of October 21, the country was able to test 4.5 percent of its population with a positivity rate of 0.93 percent. However, the regional response across Africa is still challenging, calling for harmonization and coordination of health responses vis-à-vis outbreaks in general and Covid-19 in particular, with the aim of sustaining regional health benefits within and across countries.