Overview

Rwanda has made significant strides toward achieving universal health coverage; however, numerous challenges have slowed the country’s momentum in achieving this vision. Ongoing financial and structural issues have resulted in staffing shortages and inefficient use of resources, hindering the quality of available health care services. Cultural and social norms continue to perpetuate discriminatory practices that limit access to opportunities and equitable care for women and most-at-risk populations.

With support from USAID, MSH will work closely with the Government of Rwanda and partner organizations to strengthen the capacity, leadership, and resiliency of the country’s health system. Through the THRIVE Health Systems Strengthening Next (HSS NEXT) activity, we will help improve cost efficiency and resource allocation, build management and governance skills across the health system, and strengthen workforce optimization. The five-year project will be supported by an all-Rwandan, women-led, gender-diverse leadership team that is equipped with the skills and experience needed to bring us closer to achieving the Vision 2050 goals set by Rwandan leaders to provide equitable, high-quality health care to all Rwandans. HSS NEXT aims to build on the achievements of previous MSH-led projects in Rwanda to further improve health outcomes and create lasting change.

MSH will apply a holistic, sustainable systems thinking for health approach and engage with communities, civil society, and private-sector partners to:

• Foster accountability through citizen engagement and effective governance 
• Integrate data systems for better evidence-based decision making 
• Strengthen allocation and use of financial and human resources  
• Advance gender equity and social inclusion