Once hindered by a lack of access to vaccines due to historical conflicts, many Rwandan polio survivors are now shaping promising futures despite the challenges posed by the virus.
In 1997, at just five years old, Benjamin Niyibizi, hailing from Burera District in Rwanda’s Northern Province, was struck by polio. The virus left him with a lasting disability. During that era, children with disabilities caused by polio were a common sight, often undergoing rudimentary treatments or using orthopedic casts. Rwanda, grappling with a strained healthcare system and political upheaval, faced significant challenges in rolling out vaccinations.
Routine immunization began in Rwanda in 1980, but its reach was limited, especially during the instability of the 1990s, which escalated during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Even years later, vaccination efforts in northern regions like Kinigi were hampered by lingering conflict and geographical barriers. It was in such circumstances that Niyibizi contracted the virus.
From Adversity to Advocacy
Initially mistaken for another ailment, polio rendered Niyibizi immobile, with his right leg bearing the brunt. Despite this setback, he pursued education, starting primary school at 10 and later earning an economics degree from the University of Rwanda. In 2024, he vied for a parliamentary seat, showcasing his determination to contribute to Rwanda’s growth.
“Vaccination plays an essential role in safeguarding children from epidemics. Thanks to immunisation efforts, polio is no longer a concern in Rwanda. These vaccines have been instrumental in controlling many diseases.” Niyibizi emphasizes.
Similar to Niyibizi’s journey, Annoncee Nyirangarukiyintwari contracted polio at four while in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo). Limited vaccine access left her disabled. Returning to Rwanda in 1994, she pursued education, eventually becoming a biomedical lab scientist at Nyarugenge District Hospital. She attributes Rwanda’s health advancements to its robust vaccination initiatives, “Vaccines have made a huge difference in reducing illnesses. Today, we see far fewer diseases affecting children compared to the past.” She says
A National Immunization Success Story
Rwanda has been polio-free for over 30 years, thanks to its robust vaccination campaigns. Hassan Sibomana, Acting Division Manager for Maternal, Child, and Community Health at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), emphasises this success.
“The success of Rwanda’s vaccination campaigns lies in the trust that citizens have in the healthcare system,” Sibomana explains. ” Our vaccination programme has achieved remarkable coverage, with over 95% of children receiving basic immunisations. This is a testament to our collective efforts, including dedicated health workers who ensure every child is reached,” He added
In 2023, in response to polio outbreaks in neighboring countries, Rwanda launched a new vaccination campaign targeting children under seven. The campaign reached over 95% of its target, vaccinating 1.7 million children.
Since the programme’s inception in the 1980s, it has expanded from six antigens to over a dozen, reflecting Rwanda’s commitment to protecting its population from preventable diseases.
With survivors like Niyibizi and Nyirangarukiyintwari championing the importance of vaccines, Rwanda continues to move forward, ensuring a safer and healthier future for its children
Twahirwa Eric
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