Transforming Rwanda’s Healthcare Supply Chain: A Story of Collaboration and Capacity Building
At the core of these issues is the need for a robust human resource system that can effectively store, manage, and distribute medical supplies. “Our mission to make healthcare accessible cannot succeed if our supply chain cannot withstand both routine and unforeseen disruptions,” remarked a participant at the recent RMS and Hospital DGs meeting.
A Step Forward: Training to Strengthen Supply Chain Competency
RMS, in collaboration with its partners under the Transforming Rwanda Medical Supply Chain (TRMS) Activity, is now leading a pivotal intervention to address these systemic inefficiencies. Starting in September 2024, RMS launched, a comprehensive training program designed to equip health facility leaders and pharmacy personnel with the necessary skills to manage health commodities effectively. This initiative which will continue through December 2024, has a clear purpose: build capacity, enhance competencies, and ultimately establish a resilient, reliable supply chain across Rwanda’s healthcare system.
The initiative includes a three-part training approach. First, the training of trainers (TOT) ensures that knowledgeable facilitators are available to lead district-level sessions. This will be followed by classroom training of DGs and DAFs of hospitals, as well as Heads of Health Centers. To strengthen theories acquired during classroom sessions, on-the-job training (OJT) at individual health facilities will be conducted. The goal is to empower around 700 health staff through district-level training and ensure follow-up support for over 300 health facilities.
These training will cover essential topics such as data management, inventory management, order management and eLMIS usability, the role of leadership in supply chain management, etc. Participants will benefit from updated manuals that were developed, validated, and approved by various supply chain experts, that reflect the latest industry best practices, ensuring they’re well-prepared to apply these skills in their day-to-day operations.
Building a Sustainable and Reliable Supply Chain
The envisioned impact of this program is significant. Beyond immediate skill-building, RMS in collaboration with its partners are setting the foundation for a healthcare ecosystem that can adapt to challenges. A resilient supply chain means facilities can better respond to patient demand, ensuring no patient is left without essential care.
The anticipated result is a ripple effect across Rwanda’s healthcare landscape: improved service delivery, greater accessibility, and an empowered workforce capable of meeting the healthcare needs of Rwanda’s diverse population.
A Pathway to Long-Term Impact
By uniting resources, expertise, and a shared vision, RMS is paving the way for a sustainable and accessible healthcare supply chain. This partnership is a milestone in Rwanda’s journey toward a stronger, more inclusive healthcare system, one that can reliably serve every community, regardless of location.
As these efforts unfold, the hope is clear: a healthier, more resilient future for all Rwandans, built on the solid foundation of collaboration and capacity-building.