In a significant move to bolster ties in the field of public health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, the Minister of Health of Rwanda, along with Samuel Abikunda, Commercial Counsellor from the Embassy of Rwanda in China, led a high-level delegation to BGI Genomics on September 8th, 2024. During the visit, the Rwandan officials expressed their appreciation for BGI Genomics’ notable contributions to scientific research and industrial development.
The Rwandan delegation was warmly received by Dr. Yin Ye, Chief Executive Officer of BGI Group, parent company of BGI Genomics, Dr. Du Yutao, Chief Operating Officer of BGI Genomics, Li Ning, Deputy General Manager of BGI Genomics, Xiong Tao, Vice President of BGI Global Development, BGI Group, and Chen Songheng, General Manager for Africa of BGI Genomics, who hosted the event. The discussions were centered around leveraging BGI Genomics’ expertise for the betterment of Rwanda’s healthcare infrastructure.
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Nsanzimana expressed his gratitude for BGI Genomics’ support in Rwanda’s cervical cancer screening program, highlighting the potential for further collaboration in public health initiatives. He encouraged BGI Genomics to continue contributing to the enhancement of Rwanda’s public health infrastructure.
Human papillomavirus testing
In April, BGI Genomics, in collaboration with the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), initiated a cervical cancer screening program in Ngoma District, Eastern Province. The program provides 20,000 Human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA tests to local women, aiming to bolster cervical cancer prevention and control. Furthermore, it stressed the improvement of a comprehensive management system from screening to intervention, to aid in advancing Rwanda’s healthcare system.
Du emphasized that the initiative is not limited to a single project but is part of a broader effort to support the enhancement of the local healthcare system and the sustainable development of precision medicine. BGI Genomics plans to introduce advanced genetic testing technologies in reproductive health, cancer screening, and infectious disease prevention and control, further contributing to improving health outcomes in Rwanda.
The recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit prioritized health and well-being as an essential agenda item, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in these areas. The visit exemplifies the spirit of pragmatic cooperation fostered under the FOCAC framework, laying a solid foundation for future collaborative endeavors. Looking ahead, BGI Genomics aims to make significant contributions to the region’s healthcare landscape through ongoing technological exchanges and cooperation in Rwanda and across Africa.
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