“Before, I used to travel all the way to Kigali whenever my child got seriously sick, it was exhausting, expensive, and frightening. But today, I feel safe knowing that my child can be treated right here in Nyagatare,” said Ange Uwase, a mother of two from Rwempasha Sector, her eyes filled with gratitude.

Her words echoed those of several parents who gathered at Nyagatare District Hospital on Monday, November 3, 2025, as the hospital inaugurated its new Pediatric Emergency Unit, a specialized service designed to manage urgent and life-threatening conditions in children.

“This is more than a hospital service; it’s a lifeline for our children,” added Claudine Mukamana, another mother, recalling how she once waited long hours before her sick baby could be referred elsewhere for emergency care. “Now, we are treated with speed and compassion.”

The newly opened unit is led by pediatric specialist Dr. A. Shimels, who underscored the importance of the service in improving child health outcomes across the district.

“It was very necessary to launch this service to help the children in our community,” said Dr. Shimels. “We are starting with limited means, but we are optimistic that support and resources will grow as we continue saving young lives.”

According to the hospital, this development marks a major step in its ongoing efforts to reduce child mortality and expand access to specialized care in the Eastern Province.

Representing the Director General of Nyagatare Hospital, Dr. Kanimba Allain Jean Jacques, Acting Director of Clinical and Allied Health Services, commended the pediatric team for their dedication and initiative.

“This is a milestone for Nyagatare Hospital. It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to ensuring that no child dies because of delays in accessing emergency care,” he said. “We thank the community for their trust and the medical team for their passion and professionalism.”

The Pediatric Emergency Unit is already operational, and hospital officials expect it to serve thousands of children annually.

For mothers like Uwase and Mukamana, the service brings renewed hope, and a deep sense of relief.

“Now, when my child falls sick at night, I don’t panic anymore,” Uwase said softly. “I know that help is just a few minutes away.”