The new maternity ward at Karwasa Health Center in Musanze district, Rwanda, has been welcomed by expectant mothers and healthcare providers alike. The facility, which was opened on September 30, 2026, provides a much-needed safe and private space for women to give birth. Previously, expectant mothers at the health center had to share a common area with other patients, which often led to feelings of embarrassment and discomfort.
The new maternity ward is equipped with essential amenities, including a delivery room, bathroom, and breastfeeding area. The facility was built with the support of the ENI Foundation and the Ministry of Health, with the goal of reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the region. According to healthcare providers, the new ward will enable them to provide better care to expectant mothers and newborns.
The new maternity ward is a significant improvement over the previous facilities, which lacked privacy and dignity for expectant mothers. According to Mukankundimana Dancille, a mother who recently gave birth at the health center, the new ward has made a big difference. "Before, it was embarrassing because when a woman was giving birth, others could see her," she said. "Now, we have a private room, and it makes us feel more comfortable and respected."
The maternity ward was built in response to concerns about the high rates of maternal and infant mortality in the region. According to Nyirahabimana Consolée, a healthcare provider at the health center, the new ward will help to address these concerns. "We are grateful to the government for providing us with this facility," she said. "It will enable us to provide better care to expectant mothers and newborns."
The government of Rwanda has made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure in recent years, with a focus on improving maternal and child health outcomes. According to Nsengimana Claudien, the district mayor of Musanze, the new maternity ward is part of this effort. "We are committed to improving the health and well-being of our citizens, particularly women and children," he said.
The new maternity ward is also equipped with emergency obstetric care equipment, which will enable healthcare providers to respond quickly and effectively in case of complications during childbirth. According to Domenico Giani, the director of the ENI Foundation, the organization is committed to supporting healthcare initiatives in Rwanda. "We believe that every woman deserves access to quality healthcare during childbirth," he said.
The opening of the new maternity ward at Karwasa Health Center is a significant milestone in Rwanda's efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes. According to Ndayizigiye Jean Marie Vianney, the chief executive officer of the Ministry of Health, the government is committed to continuing to invest in healthcare infrastructure and services. "We believe that every woman and child deserves access to quality healthcare," he said.
Key points
- The new maternity ward at Karwasa Health Center provides a safe and private space for expectant mothers to give birth, reducing the risk of maternal and infant mortality.
