Rwanda invested nearly 950 billion francs ($740 million) into its health sector between 2020 and 2023, strengthening primary care and easing the burden of medical costs on families, according to a new government report.
The Ministry of Health’s Rwanda Health Resource Tracking Report, released in June, shows that overall health spending rose to 948.5 billion francs from 739 billion francs in the previous cycle. Health expenditure as a share of gross domestic product, however, fell from 6.8% to 5.8%, reflecting the country’s economic rebound.
Primary health care remained a priority, absorbing nearly 70% of all health investments. Spending in this area climbed to 594.6 billion francs in 2022/23, with government contributions increasing to 45.9% while donor support declined to 41.2%.
Out-of-pocket payments by households dropped from 5% to 4% during the period, easing financial strain on families. “This reflects progress in protecting households from the burden of healthcare costs,” the ministry noted.
The report also highlights shifts in health funding sources. Donor support declined from 40% to 37% of total health investments, while government and private sector contributions grew modestly. Investments in medical equipment rose sharply, making up 45% of health spending in 2022/23.
Maternal, child and adolescent health programs saw increased funding, rising from 16.9% to 22.9% of the budget. Spending on infectious diseases decreased slightly, while investment in non-communicable diseases — such as cancer, diabetes and hypertension — plunged by 64% to just 9.9 billion francs.
Health insurance contributions also grew, reaching 191.08 billion francs. Social health insurance accounted for 47% of total coverage, surpassing community-based health insurance at 41%, while private insurers held steady at 12%.
Rwanda has pledged to continue expanding access to health services as part of its National Strategy for Transformation (NST2). By 2029, the government aims to quadruple the number of health workers and improve care for mothers, children and newborns.
