The National Human Rights Commission of Rwanda has expressed concern over the healthcare services provided to inmates in the country's prisons. According to the commission, some inmates face difficulties in accessing specialized treatment and medication in a timely manner. This is particularly challenging when inmates require transfer to major hospitals or need medication not covered by the healthcare insurance scheme.
The commission's findings were revealed during the presentation of its annual report for 2025/2026 to the Parliament. The report highlighted that some inmates suffer from illnesses requiring specialized treatment or care, but face delays in receiving it due to bureaucratic processes. Commission Chairperson, Providence Umurungi, noted that some medication is not covered by the healthcare insurance scheme, leaving some inmates unable to access necessary treatment.
In addition to healthcare concerns, the commission found that some prisons, particularly those with high occupancy rates, face challenges related to inadequate food storage facilities. The commission's report emphasized the need for authorities to address these issues to improve the living conditions of inmates.
To address these concerns, the commission plans to conduct regular inspections of prisons and detention centers to monitor the implementation of measures aimed at addressing the identified issues. Umurungi stated that the commission will engage with relevant authorities to ensure that the necessary actions are taken to improve the healthcare services and living conditions of inmates.
Members of Parliament have expressed willingness to collaborate with the commission to address the challenges faced by inmates. Deputy Ayinkamiye Speciose suggested that the families of inmates could play a role in providing support, including food and storage facilities, in partnership with prison authorities.
The commission's report also noted a decline in prison overcrowding, from 110% in 2024/2025 to 101.2% in 2025/2026. However, this still indicates that the inmate population exceeds the prison capacity by 1.2%, highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve living conditions and healthcare services.
The commission's call for improved healthcare services for inmates is a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by the prison population. The implementation of the commission's recommendations will be crucial in ensuring that inmates receive the necessary care and support.
Key points
- The commission's report highlights the need for improved healthcare services, including access to specialized treatment and medication, for inmates in Rwanda's prisons.
- Prison overcrowding remains a challenge, with the inmate population exceeding capacity by 1.2%.
- The commission plans to conduct regular inspections to monitor the implementation of measures aimed at addressing the identified issues.
