RWANDA—The Magdi Yacoub Rwanda-Egypt Heart Center has officially commenced the first phase of construction, marking a significant milestone in establishing a premier cardiac care hub for eastern and central Africa.

This regional hub, based in Kigali, will provide cutting-edge medical services and foster collaboration between Egypt and Rwanda.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Bader Abdelatty attended this important event alongside several Rwandan officials, including Health Minister Sabine Nsanzimana and the Director General of the Rwandan Food and Drug Authority.

 Renowned heart surgeon Magdi Yacoub was also present, highlighting the center’s global significance.

The inauguration ceremony featured a comprehensive construction site tour, followed by in-depth discussions between the attending officials and Yacoub regarding the center’s development and future direction.

 During the event, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed, outlining pharmaceutical cooperation between the Egyptian Drug Authority and its Rwandan counterpart.

This agreement is expected to foster significant advancements in the pharmaceutical sector and strengthen bilateral relations.

Minister Abdelatty expressed his pleasure with the MOU signing and highlighted other key agreements made during his visit to Rwanda.

In particular, he emphasized Rwanda’s strategic allocation of land for a logistics zone designated for Egypt.

This logistics hub enhances trade and stimulates investment between the two nations, reflecting a broader commitment to economic collaboration.

The heart center, a collaborative effort between Egypt and Rwanda, is poised to deliver world-class medical services.

Abdelatty expressed his appreciation to Magdi Yacoub for his visionary leadership in establishing the center, which has been developing since 2018.

 He further highlighted that the Rwanda Heart Care and Research Foundation, which will operate the centre, is committed to providing the underprivileged state-of-the-art, free-of-charge medical care.

 In addition, the foundation will play a crucial role in training a new generation of doctors, nurses, and scientists to meet the highest international standards.

The Egyptian Agency for Partnership and Development (EAPD) has signed an agreement to donate critical medical equipment to support the center’s operations.

This includes two cardiac theatres, a catheter lab, nine intensive care beds, six progressive care beds, and 15 ward beds. These contributions will significantly enhance the center’s capabilities and service offerings.

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