Rwanda and U.S. Forge $228 Million Health Pact

The United States and Rwanda have signed a $228 million, five-year agreement to bolster Rwanda's health sector. This pact aims to enhance self-reliance and disease management. It involves both governments contributing funds and encompasses technological initiatives like Zipline's medical product delivery via drones.

The United States has entered a five-year, $228 million deal with Rwanda aimed at advancing the East African nation's health sector, the State Department announced. This collaboration marks the second agreement under the Trump administration's revised overseas aid policy.

Earlier this week, Kenya was the first to engage with the U.S. under the 'America First Global Health Strategy,' revealed in September, which seeks to promote self-reliance in health management for partner countries. The funding for the Rwandan health initiative will be sourced from both U.S. and Rwandan governments.

The agreement aims to save lives and fortify Rwanda's health infrastructure, enhancing America's safety, according to the State Department. Part of the deal will allocate up to $158 million from the U.S. to tackle diseases such as HIV/AIDS and malaria. Rwanda will incrementally assume more financial responsibility by increasing its health investment by $70 million.

(With inputs from agencies.)