Dear Partners and Friends,
As I reflect on the past year, I am deeply inspired by the unwavering commitment of the Government of Rwanda and the strong sense of ownership in accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. The swift and nouvelle actions that have been taken to address gaps and drive impactful change have again, reinforced my belief in Rwanda’s ability to serve as a model of resilience and innovation, even beyond our continent.
It has been a privilege to work alongside the dedicated UNFPA Rwanda team whose passion and tireless efforts have propelled our mission forward. Through collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to leaving no one behind, we have made significant strides in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender equality, mental health, and climate action. Most importantly, I believe we could not have achieved these results without the unflinching support of the government at all levels, including the beneficiaries of our services, especially the young people who have shown tremendous agility and positive attitude towards their own development and that of the country.
This year, we witnessed the power of youth-led innovation and inclusive partnerships. From the groundbreaking Youth Connekt Africa Summit, where young innovators presented bold solutions to lingering societal challenges, to our contributions to ICPD30 milestones while placing young people at the center of our engagement, and our collaboration with key stakeholders on the 5th Health Sector Strategic Plan and the National Health Research Agenda, our collective efforts have shaped policies and programs that create lasting impact. In support of the visionary 4 by 4 initiative of the government that is aimed at ensuring adequate and high quality healthcare for all in Rwanda, we have contributed to the improvement of midwifery education. UNFPA was also a key partner to the government in its quick response to public health challenges, including the MVD and Mpox outbreaks.
A key highlight of 2024 has been the integration of mental health within SRHR programs, ensuring that young people, especially adolescent girls, receive the holistic care they deserve. By leveraging digital innovations, we have enhanced maternal health services, expanded access to youth-friendly SRHR information, and implemented targeted interventions in refugee camps, ensuring that we reach the furthest behind first while ensuring that no one is left behind.
I would like to reiterate that our partnership with government institutions, the civil society including youth groups, and the private sector has been the driving force behind our progress. We have amplified the voices of boys and young men in promoting gender equality and reproductive health, while also tackling the growing challenge of technology-facilitated gender-based violence. As we close this chapter and prepare for the year ahead, I want to call on all our partners, stakeholders, and champions to build on what we have achieved in 2024 for greater heights in 2025 and beyond. Your unwavering support and collaboration have been instrumental in advancing UNFPA’s mission in Rwanda and I sincerely thank you for this. Together, I believe we will continue to build a future where every woman and every young person can realize their full potential.
Dr. Olugbemiga Adelakin
Country Representative
UNFPA Rwanda
