Prime Minister Nsengiyumva Meets CEPI Chief to Strengthen Pandemic Preparedness

ADDIS ABABA, February 14, 2026 - Justin Nsengiyumva held high-level talks with Richard Hatchett, Director-General of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), focusing on strengthening pandemic preparedness and response capacity in Rwanda and across Africa. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, held on February 14-15, 2026, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Discussions centered on deepening cooperation to enhance the continent’s ability to anticipate and respond to health emergencies, including boosting medical research, strengthening legislative frameworks, and accelerating the production and equitable distribution of vaccines in the event of unexpected outbreaks. Rwanda has positioned itself as an emerging hub for biomedical innovation and vaccine manufacturing, aligning with broader continental efforts to reduce reliance on external supply chains during global health crises. On February 15, Prime Minister Nsengiyumva is also expected to participate in a session of the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan, a body established to promote political dialogue, unity, and lasting peace in South Sudan. The Prime Minister’s engagements in Addis Ababa reflect Rwanda’s continued commitment to continental solidarity, health security, and regional stability.