Muthomi Ireri
Rwanda-based IRCAD Africa has trained over 300 African surgeons in minimally invasive surgery, according to a government health official. This effort is part of the continent’s broader initiative to bridge the gap between high and low-income countries in the adoption of advanced surgical techniques.
IRCAD Africa, the only center of its kind on the continent, focuses on research and training in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The center aims to equip the next generation of African medical professionals with the skills needed for these modern procedures.
Minimally invasive surgery is a cutting-edge technology that reduces pain and trauma for patients, resulting in shorter hospital stays, lower risks of bleeding and infection, and quicker recoveries. In many African countries, traditional surgeries, which involve longer, more painful procedures and extended recovery times, are still the norm.
David Kamanda, the center’s managing director, explained to The Associated Press that MIS uses high-tech instruments for surgical operations. “On the African continent, more than 95% of the population lacks access to medical and surgical procedures. This center in Rwanda is part of the solution, serving the entire continent,” Kamanda said. He also noted that surgeons from 25 countries have been trained at IRCAD Africa, and Rwanda was chosen as the host due to its “global rankings, safety, and internet connectivity.”
Founded in 1994, IRCAD (Institute for Research into Cancer of the Digestive System) has become a global leader in advancing and teaching MIS. The introduction of MIS in low and middle-income countries is expected to reduce surgical mortality rates in hospitals with inadequate health facilities. IRCAD Africa is an extension of IRCAD France.
During the center’s launch last year, Rwandan President Paul Kagame praised the initiative, stating that it motivates further investments in public health infrastructure.
Dr. Anel Lengton, a general surgeon from South Africa, highlighted the center’s value, emphasizing the hands-on experience it provides. “We actually get to practice real-time on actual tissue, which is not something we usually get trained with,” Lengton said.
Dr. Omeke Joseph Chigozie, a general surgeon from Nigeria, is receiving laparoscopic training at IRCAD, focusing on hernias and colorectal surgeries. “A lot of heroes are being developed here; a lot of legends are going to come out of this lab. This is a welcome development not only for Rwanda, not only for Africa but for the whole world,” he said.
Dj Vnyash
Silverio Omari
