Key Takeaways from the Health Builders Board Field Visit
In June 2025, the Health Builders Board of Directors, led by Board Chair Nancy Reynolds, embarked on a multi-site field visit to observe the impact of our work. Board members were also able to engage directly with health workers and local leaders in rural Rwanda.
Spanning Rulindo and Rwamagana districts, the visit offered board members a comprehensive look into the realities, successes, and persistent challenges faced by health centers and community health workers (CHWs).
1. Nkanga Health Post: A Lifeline for Mothers
At the Nkanga Second Generation Health Post in Rulindo District, board members saw firsthand how proximity to health facilities saves lives.
At the health post, board members met Venantie Uwimana, a mother of four who once gave birth on the roadside due to lack of nearby services. Thanks to the new health post, she safely delivered her fourth child in a facility just 10 minutes from home. Her story is a powerful testament to how decentralizing maternal care and investing in well-equipped, community-based facilities transform lives.
2. EMR in Action at Shyorongi Health Center
At Shyorongi Health Center, the Board observed the implementation of the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, a digital solution supported by Health Builders to enhance efficiency and quality of care. Staff demonstrated how EMRs improve patient tracking, reduce paperwork, and facilitate better data-driven decision-making.
This visit reinforced the value of digital innovation in improving service delivery and highlighted the potential to scale the system across more primary health care facilities.
Board members visit Shyorongi Health Center
3. Muyumbu Health Center: Challenges and Progress
The visit to Muyumbu Health Center in Rwamagana District offered an honest look at both achievements and ongoing struggles. Board members toured the health center and engaged with local leaders and community health workers in meaningful dialogue.
Key insights from this visit included:
Maternal and child health services have improved, thanks to equipment and mentorship.
Critical infrastructure gaps exist, like limited medical supplies and staff shortages. These gaps are exacerbated by the growing population and geographic spread.
Board Chair Nancy Reynolds poses with community heath workers Muyumbu Health Center
4. Meeting a Community Health Hero
One of the most inspiring encounters of the visit was with Uwera Marie Chantal, a Community Health Worker in Muyumbu. From her own home, she provides essential care to children and adults—treating illnesses, offering family planning, and educating neighbors.
Her compassion and commitment exemplify how community-rooted health systems can achieve lasting impact.
A Shared Vision for Stronger Health Systems
The visit reinforced our shared commitment to strengthening Rwanda’s primary health system through innovation, infrastructure, and community partnership. Health Builders remains deeply committed to ensuring equitable, high-quality care for all Rwandans.
Together with our partners, we will continue to drive forward toward a future where every person, regardless of where they live, can access the care they need to live a healthy, dignified life.
