Rwanda’s Prime Minister Calls for Public Support After Increase in Community Health

On February 28, 2026, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva called on citizens to better understand the recent increase in contributions to Rwanda’s Community Health Insurance scheme (Mutuelles de Santé), stressing that the measure aims to strengthen funding for the country’s health sector. The Prime Minister made the remarks while participating in a community work activity (Umuganda) in Kigali City, specifically in Kicukiro District, Gatenga Sector, Nyarurama Cell. Residents gathered to clean and repair clogged water pipes that had caused flooding and obstructed homes for several days. During the event, Nsengiyumva explained that the government’s decision to raise Mutuelles de Santé contributions was not taken lightly but reflects the need to increase resources dedicated to healthcare services. He acknowledged that the adjustment comes at a time when citizens are also facing rising costs of living, including higher electricity tariffs, but emphasized that such decisions are part of broader efforts to manage limited national resources effectively. Using a household analogy, the Prime Minister explained that the government budget operates much like a family budget, where limited income must be distributed among many competing needs such as education, healthcare, and public services. According to him, just as families must prioritize spending when income is limited, the government must also balance national priorities while ensuring that essential services-particularly healthcare-remain accessible to the population. He noted that the last adjustment of community health insurance contributions was made in 2011, despite growing demands on the healthcare system over the past decade. As the population grows and healthcare needs expand, additional funding has become necessary to maintain and improve health services nationwide. The Prime Minister therefore urged citizens to view the increased contributions as a collective investment aimed at sustaining universal access to healthcare in Rwanda. Beyond the issue of healthcare financing, Nsengiyumva also addressed urban sanitation and environmental management. He encouraged residents and local authorities to adopt better waste management practices, particularly by separating garbage before collection. He suggested that households use different bags for plastic bottles, paper, and biodegradable waste, which would make waste collection more efficient and reduce unpleasant odors caused by mixed waste. Meanwhile, Kigali City Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva warned residents that weather forecasts indicate heavier rainfall this year. He urged communities to avoid practices that could block drainage systems, such as dumping waste in water channels and erosion control infrastructure. The mayor also called on residents to take preventive measures against flooding and erosion, emphasizing that proper waste disposal and maintenance of drainage systems are essential to mitigating the impact of heavy rains in the capital.