Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH)

The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) has been actively engaged in Rwanda through various health initiatives, focusing on strengthening health systems, combating malnutrition, and promoting digital health innovations.

Key Initiatives in Rwanda

1. Great Lakes Health Programme

Since 2002, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) has supported Rwanda’s health sector. In 2013, this support extended to the Great Lakes Health Programme, encompassing Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. A significant component was the “Nutrition Action Research” project, aiming to understand and prevent stunting in children under two years old. This participatory action research engaged parents and Community Health Workers (CHWs) to identify best practices in child nutrition.

2. DYNAMIC Project

The DYNAMIC project introduced an electronic clinical decision support algorithm (CDSA) to aid frontline health workers in managing illnesses in children under 15. Utilizing the medAL-suite software, the tool integrates clinical signs, symptoms, and test results to provide diagnostic and treatment recommendations. A pilot study in Rwanda and Tanzania demonstrated a significant reduction in unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, highlighting its potential in combating antimicrobial resistance.

3. Nutrition in City Ecosystems (NICE)

The NICE project focuses on improving nutrition and reducing poverty in secondary cities, including Rubavu and Rusizi in Rwanda. By promoting the production and consumption of local, diverse, agroecologically produced foods, and enhancing food value chains, the project aims to address the double burden of malnutrition. It fosters collaboration among city authorities, local businesses, and civil society to create sustainable food systems.

Strategic Collaborations and Capacity Building

In May 2024, Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Sabin Nsanzimana, visited Swiss TPH to discuss ongoing and future collaborations. The discussions emphasized areas such as epidemiological research, health system strengthening, and capacity building. Notably, Minister Nsanzimana is an alumnus of Swiss TPH, reflecting the institute’s role in training health professionals who contribute to Rwanda’s health sector.

Local Engagement and Implementation

Swiss TPH maintains a local presence in Rwanda, facilitating the implementation of its projects. Local staff support project coordinators to ensure smooth execution of field activities, demonstrating Swiss TPH’s commitment to community engagement and sustainable health interventions.