Rwanda to Produce Medical Radionuclides

Rwanda plans to start producing radionuclides for nuclear medicine in 2026. The announcement was made by Remy Wilson Bana, acting head of RURA’s nuclear safety division.

Regulatory Approval and Local Production

Rwanda has obtained preliminary approvals to manufacture these medical isotopes. Production is expected to create around 100 jobs in various roles.

The country aims to become a regional hub for nuclear medicine, supplying patients who previously imported radionuclides from Egypt and Europe.

Use in Advanced Medical Diagnostics

Radionuclides are used in nuclear medicine for advanced diagnostics. They can be administered orally or intravenously and analyzed through PET scans.

PET scan technology helps doctors detect diseases, including cancer, at early stages. Rwanda plans to place these machines at Kanombe Military Hospital and other key facilities.

Economic and Healthcare Benefits

Bana said local production will reduce the need for Rwandans to travel abroad for nuclear medicine tests. This will save patients significant expenses previously spent on healthcare in Europe and India.

Integration with Existing Cancer Treatment

These services will complement Rwanda’s existing cancer care infrastructure, including MRI, CT scans, chemotherapy, and surgical treatments.

The Ministry of Health approved partnership agreements on November 28, 2025, to begin delivering nuclear medicine services.

Significance of Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine enables early disease detection at the cellular level, improving treatment outcomes. While the technology is expensive, Rwanda’s initiative is a step toward modernizing healthcare in the region.