Known as the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda’s stunning scenery and warm, friendly people offer unique experiences in one of the most remarkable countries in the world.
Rwanda – a strategic location
For the first time, the Forum is being held in sub-Saharan Africa, a region at the epicentre of the global epidemic of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Here, deaths from NCDs are on the increase and are expected to surpass HIV and AIDS, tuberculosis, and maternal mortality as the leading cause of death by 2030. In Rwanda specifically, NCDs were responsible for 50% of total deaths in 2022, according to the World Health Organization.
Yet Rwanda has positioned itself as a beacon of progress on health and NCDs – both within the region and globally. Trailblazing renowned Universal Health Coverage reforms, implementing their National NCD Strategy 2020-2025, and decentralising NCD care to health facilities.
Its holistic and multisectoral approach brings together government ministries responsible for sport, food and nutrition, trade, environment, education, and local government, while building the capacity of frontline health workers, to support long-term investment for a healthier future.
Hosting the Forum in Rwanda is therefore an opportunity to promote good practice and leadership on NCDs, as well as building momentum on NCDs within the region.
KIGALI
Rwanda is blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, with incredible wildlife living throughout its volcanoes, mountain rainforests and sweeping plains.
Its green capital city, Kigali, is renowned for its safety and is dynamic and progressive, with just over one million inhabitants. The Rwandan capital is ranked the second most popular destination in Africa for hosting international conferences and events by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).
The Forum will be hosted at the iconic Kigali Convention Centre (KCC) – one of the largest conference and events spaces in the region. Conveniently located close to Kigali airport, KCC offers a premium environment for regional and international conventions, exhibitions, festivals, meetings and other events.