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With five out of seven people lacking access to safe surgery and 4.2 million dying within 30 days of operations each year, experts at the inaugural Advancing Medical Education in Africa Conference (MedEdAfrica 2025) this week highlighted how these interventions, paired with innovative training, are reducing risks and reshaping healthcare education.

'When the lights go off mid-operation, our headlamp comes on, and we continue,' said Professor Nobhojit Roy, a Lifebox governing board member and surgery professor at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE).

Lifebox’s headlamps, distributed across 116 countries, tackle a universal hurdle: power interruptions.

In Rwanda, like many other countries in the region, they have illuminated operating theaters, with Prof. Roy describing them as a 'practical fix' in cases of power hitches, ensuring surgeries can continue uninterrupted even with the slightest interruption.

Senait Bitew Alemu, Lifebox’s Chief Programme Officer, highlighted the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist as a cornerstone of their Clean Cut project, which includes components such as proper hand hygiene, skin antisepsis, sterile equipment and environment, and timely antibiotic prophylaxis.

In Rwanda, the non-profit organization focused on improving the safety of surgery in low-income countries has been implementing the Clean Cut program in four facilities, including CHUK, Kabgayi, Kigeme, and Kirehe. According to the organization, globally, Clean Cut has demonstrated a 35% reduction in infections among all patients.

'A patient shouldn’t return with an infection,' Alemu said, emphasizing the importance of safer recoveries for mothers post-cesarean.

Pulse oximeters, which monitor oxygen levels, have also played an important role in safer surgeries.

'It’s a device you saw during COVID,' Prof. Roy noted.

A pulse oximeter is the only piece of equipment included on the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist and is a minimum standard for safe anesthesia. Yet, operating rooms across the world still lack this essential device, putting millions of lives at risk, according to Lifebox experts.

Since 2011, Lifebox has distributed more than 35,000 pulse oximeters in 116 countries. Coupled with the training of more than 14,000 healthcare providers on safe surgeries, these efforts are making surgery safer for more than 200 million patients.

Additionally, as part of efforts for safer surgeries, Lifebox, in partnership with Smile Train, is equipping 650 operating rooms with Smile Train-Lifebox Capnographs. These essential monitors ensure patients receive adequate oxygen during anesthesia. While they have been used universally in high-income countries for decades, they remain absent in many low-resource operating rooms.

The MedEdAfrica conference, launched Monday at the Kigali Convention Centre, drew over 600 medical educators, students, healthcare leaders, and policymakers from Africa and beyond.

Hosted by UGHE, the Ministry of Health, and partners, it birthed the Consortium of Medical Schools in Africa (COMSA) to foster collaboration.

Speaking during the opening of the conference, Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana stressed the importance of evolving education to meet a shifting health landscape.

'Diseases have moved from malaria to cancer as life expectancy rises,' he said. 'We need specialists, and fast.'

Lifebox supports the ministry through a nine-month nursing fellowship at Butaro Teaching Hospital, which began two months ago and is ongoing.

'Nurses are the backbone,' Alemu affirmed. 'We’re training them in safety, leadership, and sterilization,” she added.

The Lifebox training program, targeting general nurses in perioperative roles, aims to cascade training across Rwanda, with five initial trainees set to mentor others.

Reforms on medical training

Professor Abebe Bekele, UGHE’s Dean and COMSA co-chair, emphasized the need for education reform across Africa to address existing gaps.

'Africa can’t afford 15-20-year training timelines,' he said, advocating for shorter, intensive programs and multi-level training to meet rural healthcare demands.

He termed the reforms as crucial to supporting initiatives such as the 4×4 program launched in July 2023, which aims to quadruple the number of healthcare workers in the country within four years, with a target to achieve this by 2027.

Thomas Weiser, a Stanford surgeon and Lifebox collaborator, echoed this call for change: 'We’ve trained doctors the same way for 120 years—it’s too slow.' He proposed simulation and task-sharing with non-medical doctors, noting, 'Nurse anesthetists handle 80% of rural US anesthetics.'

Minister Nsanzimana pushed for a tech-driven overhaul, stating, 'The demand is growing, and we must respond by aligning medical education with healthcare needs. There is no debate—medical education is crucial. The burden of disease is increasing and evolving. We have moved from primarily dealing with malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis to addressing chronic illnesses like cancer and organ failure. These shifts are recent—perhaps in the past decade—but they are significant.'

He added, 'AI is already transforming fields like radiology and pathology. Should we continue training the same number of specialists in these fields, or should we adapt to the changing landscape? Technology is not replacing healthcare professionals, but it is shifting how we work. We must integrate these advancements into medical education.'

Prof. Roy reinforced this urgency: 'With population growth, we need faster training—15 years won’t cut it.'

In operating rooms worldwide, where power failures and infections threaten millions, simple tools like headlamps, pulse oximeters, and checklists are proving to be life-saving game-changers.

Pulse oximeters, which monitor oxygen levels, have also played an important role in safer surgeries.

The Lifebox team at their stand during the two-day Advancing Medical Education in Africa Conference (MedEdAfrica 2025), held on March 24-25, 2025.

Senait Bitew Alemu, Lifebox’s Chief Programme Officer, highlighted the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist as a cornerstone of their Clean Cut project.

Professor Nobhojit Roy is a board member at Lifebox and surgery professor at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE).

Professor Abebe Bekele, UGHE’s Dean and COMSA co-chair, emphasized the need for education reform across Africa.

Minister Nsanzimana led calls to transform medical education on the continent at the inaugural Advancing Medical Education in Africa Conference.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Speaking at the seminar, Thapelo Tsheole, Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Market Authority, stressed the country’s growing achievements in green finance.

'Rwanda’s commitment to green finance is evident through its Sustainable Finance Roadmap, which provides strategic direction for scaling up sustainable investments while ensuring the resilience of the financial system,' he said.

A significant milestone in Rwanda’s financial sector has been the introduction of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Reporting Guidelines for the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE).

'These guidelines align Rwanda’s financial markets with international sustainability standards, enhancing transparency, accountability, and responsible investing,' Tsheole noted. He added that the move has significantly boosted investor confidence and improved market efficiency through adherence to global best practices.

Among other notable developments is the launch of Green, Social, and Sustainability (GSS+) Bonds, structured in line with standards set by the International Capital Market Association (ICMA) and the Climate Bonds Initiative (CBI).

'The successful issuance of these bonds affirms Rwanda’s commitment to creating credible and attractive green investment opportunities, ensuring our financial markets remain globally competitive,' said Tsheole.

In addition to GSS+ Bonds, the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD) has issued two Sustainability-Linked Bonds, while Prime Energy Plc launched a Green Bond to finance environmentally sustainable projects.

'These issuances highlight our dedication to leveraging capital markets to support climate-resilient development while enhancing investor confidence,' Tsheole added.

Rwanda’s robust green finance agenda is designed to attract private sector investment into climate-related initiatives, deepen capital market development, and align national policies with international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

These efforts also contribute to fostering responsible investing and strengthening the overall credibility of Rwanda’s financial sector. With progressive policies and ongoing innovation in green finance, Rwanda is well on its way to becoming a continental leader in sustainable financial development.

Thapelo Tsheole, the Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Market Authority (L) speaking at the panel discussion.

IGIHE

In a recent interview with the BBC, President Ndayishimiye claimed he had credible information indicating that Rwanda plans to invade Bujumbura using RED Tabara, which he says is based in South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

“We know that Rwanda is trying to attack us through the Democratic Republic of Congo, using RED Tabara. But we are telling them that if they want to attack Bujumbura via Congo, Kigali is also not far if we go through Kirundo.'

Ndayishimiye began accusing Rwanda of backing RED Tabara in December 2023, following the group’s attack on the Gatumba area near Bujumbura. Rwanda denied the accusations, stating it does not support any group opposing the Burundian government.

On March 26, 2025, RED Tabara’s military spokesperson, Patrick Nahimana, released a statement dismissing Ndayishimiye’s claims as baseless. He emphasized that the group is solely supported by Burundians.

'RED Tabara strongly denies being supported by Rwanda or any other entity. Our struggle is solely backed by Burundians who understand that our existence is rooted in the need to restore the rule of law and the Arusha Peace Agreement, which the CNDD-FDD-led government has violated—leading to Burundi’s political crisis since 2015,' Nahimana said.

The group pointed out that Rwanda previously handed over captured RED Tabara fighters to Burundi in July 2021. These individuals were arrested in Nyungwe Forest in September 2020 after crossing from Kibira Forest.

RED Tabara argued that it is illogical to accuse Rwanda of supporting them while it is actively participating in peace talks with Burundi aimed at restoring diplomatic ties strained since the 2023 Gatumba incident.

'How could Rwanda be supporting RED Tabara while it is simultaneously in dialogue with Burundi to resolve their differences?' the group questioned.

They further accused President Ndayishimiye of using Rwanda as a scapegoat to deflect attention from Burundi’s worsening economic conditions.

The group invited international observers to visit their bases and investigate any claims of external support, urging transparency.

Meanwhile, President Ndayishimiye has firmly stated that his government will not negotiate with RED Tabara, insisting that the group’s fighters must be brought to justice.

In response, RED Tabara called on international organizations that supported the Arusha Peace Agreement to pressure the Burundian government into engaging in dialogue with political and armed opposition groups.

They argued that, had such pressure been applied earlier, the ongoing conflict might have been resolved.

President Ndayishimiye has firmly stated that his government will not negotiate with RED Tabara, insisting that the group’s fighters must be brought to justice.

IGIHE

According to AP, a local pilot identified as Terry Godes, saw a social media post Sunday night asking for help locating the missing plane.

Early Monday, he joined a search team and spotted what appeared to be wreckage near the lake. As he got closer, Godes was relieved to see the survivors waving from the wing.

'They were alive and responsive,' Godes told The Associated Press.

The plane was reported missing after it failed to return from its flight. John Morris, the pilot’s father, made a public plea for help on social media, which led to the search effort.

Once Godes located the crash site, other pilots helped relay information to authorities, leading to a rescue by the Alaska Army National Guard.

The plane crashed in Lake Alaska after it failed to return from its flight.

IGIHE

Despite the extensive discussions, including a 12-hour meeting between the U.S. and Russia, both sides offered conflicting assessments of the talks.

The U.S. delegation, led by Andrew Peek and Michael Anton, met separately with Russian and Ukrainian representatives. The talks addressed issues like maritime safety in the Black Sea and a temporary moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure.

However, both Russia and Ukraine voiced concerns about the implementation of any agreements. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called for clear guarantees from the U.S. regarding Ukrainian compliance, while Ukrainian President Zelensky criticized the discussions, particularly Washington’s willingness to help restore Russia’s access to global agricultural markets, calling it a weakening of sanctions.

Despite the diplomatic exchanges, fighting on the ground continued, with both sides accusing each other of escalating tensions. Ukrainian forces reported casualties from a Russian missile strike in Sumy, while Russia accused Ukraine of targeting its energy infrastructure.

Meanwhile, experts remain skeptical about the prospects of a lasting resolution, citing deep mistrust and the failure of previous negotiations.

As the situation remains volatile, Europe has also intensified its support for Ukraine, with France and Britain pushing for military assistance and long-term security guarantees.

Meanwhile, the U.S. faces criticism for its dual role as a mediator while having economic interests in Ukraine’s mineral and energy resources.

With trust between the parties eroding, the future of peace talks remains uncertain, and the path to a lasting ceasefire seems increasingly complex.

IGIHE

The minister made the comments following President Ndayishimiye’s interview with the BBC, in which he claimed to have reliable information suggesting that Rwanda is planning an attack on Burundi through the RED Tabara rebel group, which operates in South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the interview, President Ndayishimiye intensified his rhetoric, suggesting that Burundi is prepared to attack Rwanda.

“We know that Rwanda is attempting to attack us via Congolese territory, using the RED Tabara group. But we are telling them that if they want to attack Bujumbura through Congo, Kigali is not far from us through Kirundo,” he stated.

Nduhungirehe expressed concern that such comments contradicted the progress made in talks between the two countries to de-escalate tensions.

'This statement by H.E. the President of Burundi is unfortunate, especially since the military and intelligence authorities of both countries are currently in discussions and have even agreed on the need for a military and verbal de-escalation,' Nduhungirehe stated, referring to the talks, with the most recent meeting taking place in Kirundo Province on March 10, 2025.

The minister also noted that he had discussed the matter with his Burundian counterpart during a recent joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) ministerial meeting in Zimbabwe.

'I also discussed this matter with my Burundian counterpart on the sidelines of the joint EAC-SADC ministerial meeting in Harare on March 17, 2025, and we were fully aligned on this issue,' Nduhungirehe added.

Despite the setbacks, Nduhungirehe emphasized that Rwanda remains committed to peace with Burundi and the broader Great Lakes region.

“Rwanda will continue its commitment to peace with Burundi and in the Great Lakes region, while hoping for more calm and restraint in official statements from across the Akanyaru River,” he stated.

The relations between Rwanda and Burundi have been strained for years, particularly due to Rwanda’s refusal to extradite individuals accused of attempting to overthrow former President Pierre Nkurunziza’s government in 2015. Rwanda maintains that these individuals are refugees protected under international law, preventing their extradition.

Since January 2024, Burundi has closed its land borders with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting attacks by RED Tabara—a claim that Rwanda has consistently denied, asserting it has no connection with the armed group.

Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, expressed disappointment in recent remarks by Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, calling them “unfortunate” in light of ongoing peace efforts between the two countries.

IGIHE

However, one experience stood out above the rest: my encounter with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly acupuncture.

Traditional medicine is an integral part of every culture. In Rwanda, I have often heard about traditional healing practices, but I had never personally explored them. However, when I travel, I make it a point to experience new things firsthand.

So, when the opportunity arose to visit Beijing Massage Hospital, I knew I had to try acupuncture—one of the most renowned components of TCM.

Located in Beijing, Beijing Massage Hospital is a premier institution specializing in massage therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation.

Established in 1958, the hospital has built a stellar reputation for integrating TCM practices with modern rehabilitation techniques. It is particularly known for treating musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, and chronic pain through methods such as tuina (therapeutic massage), acupuncture, and herbal medicine.

Located in Beijing, Beijing Massage Hospital is a distinguished institution specializing in massage therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation.

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve pain. While some people dismiss it as quackery, I was eager to judge for myself.

What made my experience even more interesting was that, on the morning of my visit, I woke up with a nagging pain in the upper right part of my back. Whether from poor posture or an awkward sleeping position, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to test acupuncture’s effectiveness.

A skilled practitioner inserts fine acupuncture needles into a patient’s back to relieve muscle tension and promote overall well-being.

Walking into Beijing Massage Hospital, I was immediately struck by its calm and orderly atmosphere. After a brief consultation, I was guided to an acupuncture specialist who assessed my condition and explained how the treatment could help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.

As the session began, I felt a slight prick as five thin needles were inserted into targeted points on my back. Contrary to my expectations, there was no real pain—just a mild tingling sensation.

In a consultation room at a Chinese medicine hospital, I discussed my symptoms with an experienced TCM specialist before treatment.

I lay still, breathing in the serene environment as the needles worked their magic. The entire process lasted about 10 minutes. While I wasn’t instantly cured, I felt a noticeable sense of relief and a soothing warmth where the needles had been placed.

Just before my session, a friend who accompanied me opted for a general health check-up using traditional Chinese diagnostic techniques. What I witnessed was nothing short of fascinating.

Neatly packed herbal medicine sachets, ready to be brewed into therapeutic teas for various ailments.

The doctor placed two fingers on her right wrist, closed his eyes briefly, and then asked her to open her mouth so he could examine her tongue. After only two minutes of assessment, he confidently diagnosed her with digestive issues, sensitivity to cold, and a need for more exercise.

To my amazement, my friend confirmed that all his observations were accurate. It was incredible to witness the precision of this ancient diagnostic method, which relied solely on pulse reading—a practice that has existed in China for thousands of years.

Doctors at Beijing Massage Hospital wrap medicinal herbs following traditional methods of prescription preparation.

Beijing Massage Hospital offers a wide range of TCM treatments beyond acupuncture, including medical massage (tuina), moxibustion, rehabilitation therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine consultations, among others.

My experience at Beijing Massage Hospital was eye-opening and reaffirmed a saying in my native Kinyarwanda: 'Buri gahugu n’umuco wako,' which means each country has its own culture and practices.

A TCM doctor attentively listens to a patient’s concerns, gathering details before recommending a personalized treatment plan.

A doctor carefully measures and sorts dried herbs to create the perfect blend for each patient’s prescription.

Traditional Chinese charms are also provided to the patients.

Walking paths lined with trees and flowers provide a tranquil setting for patients seeking both physical and mental healing.

Traditional paintings are used to decorate consultation rooms.

Christian Mugisha

The date, officially recognized by the United Nations as the International Day of Reflection on the Genocide, holds deep meaning for the Rwandan community.

The President of the Rwandan diaspora in France, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura and representatives of survivor organizations, had raised concerns with the mayor, warning that the event could undermine genocide remembrance efforts.

Critics of the concert say some of the scheduled performers, including Maître Gims and Youssoupha, have previously expressed controversial views about Rwanda, adding to the tension already present between the Rwandan and Congolese communities in Paris.

While the concert was allegedly intended to raise funds for children affected by conflict in eastern Congo, UNICEF France, the intended beneficiary, has declined to be associated with the event if it goes ahead on April 7, citing the significance of the date.

The Mayor’s office, in a statement released on March 25, said the concert’s timing was inappropriate and risked disturbing public order, especially in light of recent hateful rhetoric targeting Rwandans and Tutsis circulating online.

Authorities also noted that protests had already been planned should the event proceed as scheduled.

Hidalgo formally requested the Prefect of Police to prohibit the concert, emphasizing the potential for disruption and the need to respect the day of mourning and remembrance.

Paris mayor has requested police to cancel Maître Gims’ concert clashing with 31st Genocide commemoration

IGIHE