Evaluation of Rwanda’s COVID-19 Response from the Perspectives of Decisionmakers and Frontliners

Abstract

Introduction After more than a year since the first detection of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2, commonly known as COVID-19, the virus spread globally and has had drastic social and economic impacts. Presently, safe, and effective vaccines as well as a strong public health response remain the best strategy to control the pandemic. Rwanda took a proactive approach in the preparedness and response guidelines and strategies, and implementation of interventions to respond to this pandemic. This evaluation provides an evaluation of these policies, and response interventions implemented as well as strengths, challenges, and lessons learned from the perspectives of the professional involved in the response. Methods This evaluation consisted of a literature review to identify and describe the preparedness and response policies designed and implemented to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. It also consisted of key informant interviews with professionals involved in different sectors of pandemic responses to identify the strengths, challenges, and lessons learned. The Rapid and Rigorous Qualitative Data Analysis (RADaR) technique was used to draw key themes were drawn from the interviews. Results Findings from the study identified three main themes as part of the response which was (1) coordination and comprehensive planning, (2) risk communication and public awareness, and (3) response interventions. It also identifies the key lessons learned and recommendations from the respondents. Conclusion This study provided a local, on-ground perspective on the management of the pandemic in Rwanda. The Government of Rwanda developed and implemented country-wide policies and cross-cutting response interventions to minimize the spread and impact of COVID-19. However, there are still lessons and challenges to take into consideration for a better, more effective response that minimizes the socioeconomic impacts and poor population health outcomes.