Honourable Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Health,Your Excellencies and members of the Diplomatic Corps,Development partners,Distinguished guests,Representatives of the media,Ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning! Mwaramutse!
First of all, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Government of Rwanda, through the Ministry of Health, specifically you Minister, for the exceptional leadership in effectively containing the very first Marburg virus disease outbreak in Rwanda. Your decisive actions, unwavering commitment, and rapid response were instrumental in preventing widespread negative impact and safeguarding lives. This remarkable achievement underscores Rwanda’s strong health system, resilience and steadfast dedication to protecting public health.
Today, we gather to mark a monumental triumph — the official declaration of the end of the Marburg outbreak in Rwanda. This is not just a milestone; it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Rwandan people, the strength of the country leadership, the bravery of its healthcare workers, and the transformative power of collaboration.
The rapid and coordinated response led by the Ministry of Health, supported by WHO and all other development partners, was nothing short of extraordinary. Together, we moved with urgency to ensure the detection, isolation, and containment of the threat, while communities were mobilized to protect lives and restore hope. I am happy to report that WHO had about 20 of the best world experts on Viral Hemorrhagic Fever deployed and rotating at all times during the outbreak from the WHO Regional and Headquarters levels, in addition to the whole of my country office team. WHO also deployed 39 AVoHC-SURGE experts from the Uganda, Liberia and Sierra Leone governments, the largest deployment of first responders ever, specifically requested by Minister to help cover gaps in ICU and emergency care as a result of the outbreak heavily impacting health workers, demonstrating remarkable solidarity among member states in the region.
We have been honoured as WHO to have been able to work very closely with a wide range of partners to support government in this response. We were able to coordinate ourselves, under government leadership, and effectively and efficiently respond to national needs, ensuring that our collective efforts were indispensable. Together, we elevated our partnership to unprecedented levels, strengthening our shared commitment to health security in supporting the government of Rwanda. I wish to express WHO’s deepest gratitude to fellow UN agencies, Africa CDC, the US Government, the European Union, the British Government, together with the Governments of Liberia, Uganda, and Sierra Leone, the Global outbreak alert and response network (GOARN) collaborators, all bilateral partners, multilateral partners, international NGOs, and all other partners and individuals who contributed to this effort.
On behalf of WHO and on behalf of all development partners, we are proud to have worked hand-in-hand with the Government of Rwanda and contributed to the achievement of this remarkable milestone in the Marburg outbreak response. Through decisive case management and a comprehensive strategy, loss of life was significantly reduced, and community transmission was stopped. With case fatality rates for Marburg outbreaks the world over known to range from 24% to 88%, Rwanda’s 23% CFR is a stellar achievement. This unified effort, driven by rapid detection, contact tracing, isolation, intensive early treatment, and community engagement, has set a new regional benchmark for managing filovirus outbreaks.
The outbreak underscored the urgent need to strengthen International Health Regulations (IHR) capacities, which are fundamental to building robust health systems capable of responding effectively to future public health threats. WHO remains committed to continue partnering with the Government of Rwanda to enhance these capacities, ensuring the country is well-prepared for any emerging challenges. Furthermore, the outbreak highlighted the critical importance of the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. By integrating efforts across sectors, we can more efficiently prevent, detect, and respond to health threats. One Health is not just a strategic framework; it is an essential approach in a world where health threats know no boundaries.
This victory, however, is not the end. We look forward to the After-Action Review that is being planned by Ministry of Health with WHO and other partners that will document the response and the lessons learnt, including the critical importance of preparedness and early detection.
To our health workers, community leaders, and all those who contributed, we express our deepest gratitude. Your dedication, resilience, and courage were the backbone of this success. To our colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice, your bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten. Your legacy lives on in the lives saved and in the stronger health system we are building together. You are the true heroes, and your spirit will continue to guide us forward.
As we close this chapter and look ahead, may the holiday season bring you joy, peace, and the rest needed to recharge for the challenges and triumphs to come. As we celebrate, let us enter the new year with renewed hope, strength, and a unified resolve to building a healthier, safer world for all.
I thank you!
