Rwanda’s new AI health apps—E-Ubuzima for seamless medical records and E-Banguka for live ambulance tracking—promise faster care, fewer queues, and stronger data privacy, setting a continental example for digital health innovation.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Health has introduced two AI-driven mobile applications—E-Ubuzima and E-Banguka—to digitize medical records, streamline emergency response, and expand remote healthcare access, officials announced at the Africa HealthTech Summit.
E-Ubuzima digitizes patient records across all public health facilities, enabling real-time synchronization of medical data. Both doctors and patients can access updated health information instantly, reducing waiting times and improving treatment precision.
The app also enables remote consultations, allowing users to connect with healthcare professionals by phone for advice or follow-up care.
E-Banguka aims to strengthen emergency response through live ambulance tracking and intelligent dispatch of the nearest available vehicle.
Health workers and first responders can monitor ambulances via a unified dashboard, improving coordination and cutting response times.
Dr. Yvan Butera, Minister of State for Health, emphasized that both platforms comply with Rwanda’s data protection and cybersecurity laws.
“All patient data is stored locally on secure, Rwandan-built systems to ensure privacy and ethical use,” he said. Developed in partnership with UN agencies and local tech developers, the apps form part of an interoperable digital health ecosystem.
Reactions
Government: Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Director General of the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, called the launch “a transformative step toward a fully connected health system that empowers communities and providers alike.”
UN: Ozonnia Ojielo, UN Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, described the initiative as “a model for how digital innovation, global best practices, and local expertise can converge to improve patient outcomes.”
Healthcare Workers: Nurses at Kigali University Teaching Hospital reported early gains in data accuracy and workflow efficiency, noting that “we now spend less time on paperwork and more on patient care.”
Since 2017, Rwanda has prioritized digital health through projects like the RapidSMS maternal health program and Smart Health Information System.
The AI-powered E-Ubuzima and E-Banguka applications represent the next phase of the nation’s health tech evolution, supporting Vision 2030 goals for universal health coverage and data-driven policy. Across Africa, more than 20 countries have launched national e-health strategies since 2020.
By early 2026, the Ministry of Health will train community health workers nationwide. Plans include linking E-Ubuzima with private clinics and pharmacies, and expanding E-Banguka’s network to cross-border regions.
Continuous monitoring and feedback will guide future updates, such as AI-based disease surveillance and predictive analytics.
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