At the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB), the International Day of the Sick was celebrated on Sunday 8th 2026, an annual event dedicated to reminding society of the importance of caring for patients and providing them with quality healthcare services that help them recover.
The day served as a platform bringing together patients, medical professionals, partners, religious leaders, and other stakeholders in the health sector to discuss ways to further improve patients’ well-being and enhance the quality of healthcare services.
Niyitegeka Eugénie, a patient who came to CHUB from Ruhango District after being referred by Kinazi Hospital, said she had been suffering from a uterine tumor. Upon arriving at CHUB, she was warmly received and given a special care, which enabled her to walk again without using a cane or needing assistance.
“Before, my illness was beyond the capacity of Kinazi Hospital, and I had to go to Kigali, which was difficult for people with limited means. Now, we can access quality services nearby.” She testified.
She added that CHUB does not only focus on medical treatment but also cares for patients’ overall well-being, including supporting vulnerable patients with basic needs and special attention.
Nzabihimana Alphonse, a patient from Kibumbwe Sector in Nyamagabe District, explained that he was critically ill and was taken by ambulance to a health center, then referred to Kigeme Hospital, and later transferred to CHUB.
He said that CHUB had modern equipment that allowed doctors to treat him without surgery, even though he had a serious intestinal blockage.
“Today, illnesses like this no longer require treatment from abroad. Services are available nearby. I thank the Government of Rwanda for improving healthcare so that patients receive timely care.” He said.
Dr. Christian Ngarambe, The Director General of CHUB, noted that the International Day of the Sick has been observed worldwide since 1993, after being established by Pope John Paul II in 1992. In Rwanda, it has now been commemorated for the 34th time.
“Caring for patients is not only the responsibility of healthcare workers; it is everyone’s duty. We must work together to ensure that patients receive convenient and compassionate services.” He stated.
He added that CHUB has acquired modern equipment, including tools for breast cancer treatment, brain surgery, and an MRI machine, which have significantly strengthened its capacity to diagnose and treat complex diseases.
These improvements have reduced the need to refer patients to hospitals in Kigali or abroad, thereby cutting travel and treatment costs.
CHUB management reported that the hospital receives more than 120,000 patients annually. Each day, it treats between 500 and 600 outpatients, while about 250 patients are hospitalized. This reflects the public’s confidence in CHUB’s services and its important role in delivering quality healthcare.
Ange Sebutege, The Mayor of Huye District, emphasized that patients need love, support, and dedication, especially those abandoned by their families.
“There is a need for cooperation among different institutions so that patients feel fully cared for, as some are often neglected by their families.” He spoke.
He also praised the improved hygiene standards in health facilities and hospitals, which have reduced hospital-acquired infections and ensured that people visit hospitals primarily for medical care.
CHUB leadership further noted that the hospital now has a specialized cancer diagnosis and treatment unit, as well as an MRI machine that had long been unavailable in the Southern Province. These developments have reduced referrals to Kigali and Butaro by about 75%, enabling patients to access services faster and closer to home.
Participants in the International Day of the Sick agreed that the occasion helps restore patients’ confidence, allows them to be heard, and gives them the respect they deserve, strengthening their motivation to recover.
The event demonstrated that CHUB continues to make remarkable progress in providing high-quality healthcare services based on modern technology, compassion, and professionalism, ensuring that patients receive accessible and reliable medical care.
