For many people living with disabilities in Rwanda, access to assistive technologies can mean the difference between dependence and independence, isolation and opportunity. Behind these life-changing interventions is a growing generation of skilled health professionals dedicated to helping people regain mobility, dignity, and confidence.
One of them is Jackline Mupenzi Gatsinzi, whose career has been shaped by a commitment to improving the lives of persons with disabilities.
Her journey began in 2014 when she enrolled in an Advanced Diploma in Prosthetics and Orthotics at the University of Rwanda, driven by a desire to help people overcome physical limitations through assistive technologies. That opportunity came through the African Development Bank-supported East African Regional Centre of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and e-Health (CEBE), which enabled her to advance from a bachelor's degree to a master's. The experience strengthened Gatsinzi's technical skills, broadened her expertise, and enhanced her ability to serve those who depend on assistive technologies.
After graduating in 2017, Gatsinzi joined the University of Rwanda as a clinical instructor in the Prosthetics and Orthotics Department, where she contributed to both providing rehabilitation services and training future specialists.
"This opportunity did more than elevate my education; it expanded my expertise, refined my skills, and deepened my commitment to empowering persons with disabilities," Gatsinzi said. "I now have the tools to make an even greater impact, improving lives and contributing to the health and well-being of our communities."
As she worked with patients, Gatsinzi saw first-hand how access to properly designed prosthetic and orthotic devices could transform lives. Individuals who had lost mobility regained independence. Children were able to attend school more easily. Adults returned to work and community life. Yet she also recognised the need for more experts to meet the growing demand for quality rehabilitation services.
Today, Jackline serves as a certified prosthetist and orthotist, an assistant lecturer and department head at the University of Rwanda's College of Medicine and Health Sciences. She provides solutions that improve mobility and functionality for people with disabilities, while mentoring and training the next generation of specialists. Through her work, the impact extends far beyond individual patients, reaching families, communities, and future healthcare professionals.
Her story reflects a broader transformation taking place across Rwanda's health sector. Through advanced training and skills development, CEBE has helped produce nearly 200 highly skilled graduates in biomedical engineering, e-health, and related fields, while more than 400 health professionals have received practical training in medical equipment management and digital health systems. These professionals are helping hospitals and health facilities maintain critical medical equipment, improve service delivery, and ensure that patients receive timely, quality care.
According to Peter Malinga, principal social economist in the Bank's Rwanda Country Office and CEBE project task manager, the project's impact goes beyond training individuals.
"CEBE is helping to build a new generation of highly skilled biomedical engineers and digital health professionals who are improving healthcare delivery across Rwanda and the region. Most importantly, it is creating long-term solutions that will improve the quality of healthcare services for communities."
For Jackline, the project represents more than professional advancement. It represents an investment in people--both those receiving care and those committed to delivering it.
"Through projects like the Centre of Excellence, the African Development Bank is nurturing a generation of professionals ready to tackle our continent's challenges with innovation, compassion, and resilience," she said.
