In the wake of emerging zoonotic diseases in Rwanda, such as Rift Valley Fever, Marburg, and Mpox, building the capacity of the future workforce is crucial. Addressing these complex health challenges requires transdisciplinary thinking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange across diverse fields. Adoption of One Health approach—an integrated framework that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health— provides solutions to global health challenges. Effective One Health adoption requires intersectoral coordination, transdisciplinary collaboration, and clear communication to optimize health outcomes for all.
Since 2021, the Capacitating One Health in Eastern and Southern Africa (COHESA) project, in partnership with academia, public institutions, and the private sector, has played a pivotal role in equipping university students in Rwanda with the skills and knowledge necessary for the adoption and promotion of One Health. These efforts have built on the work implemented by the Africa One Health Network (AFROHUN)
One Health Experiential learning in action
From November 17-23, 2024, the COHESA Rwanda team organized an experiential learning excursion for 29 university students (16 females and 13 males) from 12 disciplines to Kayonza district, in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. Experiential learning—an approach that emphasizes active engagement, reflection, and application of knowledge to real-world situations—is being promoted as a powerful tool for deepening students’ understanding of complex health challenges.
Kayonza District was chosen as a learning site due to its dynamic interface between wildlife, humans, and livestock. The activity was supported by seven mentors (five males and two females) from the health and veterinary departments of the University of Rwanda, along with two guest speakers from government institutions who provided insights into Rwanda’s integrated One Health surveillance system, covering both human and animal health perspectives.
Training sites
Akagera National Park - conservation efforts and challenges:
Students gained firsthand exposure to conservation strategies aimed at maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. They learned about community engagement efforts that promote resilience, including programs for ex-poachers, and strategies for mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. Researchers at the park conduct studies on snake species to update conservation databases and advise anti-venom manufacturers. Additionally, students explored research on mosquito-borne zoonotic diseases like Rift Valley Fever and discussed potential areas for collaboration.
Rwinkwavu District Hospital:
At the hospital, students were introduced to infection prevention and control measures, laboratory roles in sentinel surveillance for Trypanosomiasis (a disease that has been eliminated in Rwanda), waste management, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance, and AMR stewardship efforts. The hospital also collaborates with local veterinarians and authorities to manage the increasing number of dog bite cases in the area, minimizing potential zoonotic threats.
Rwinkwavu mining site:
Students learned about the impact of mining on human, animal, and environmental health, particularly the risks of heavy metal contamination in agricultural areas. They also learned about the ecological consequences of mining activities, such as the creation of mosquito breeding grounds and wildlife habitats in abandoned excavation sites. Additionally, the session highlighted health risks like silicosis—a chronic lung disease affecting mine workers due to exposure to silica dust found in mines, quarries and construction sites. Students learned about the various preventive measures, including tree planting initiatives that have been undertaken by the mines’ management to restore environmental balance.
Kageyo milk collection center: at the milk collection centre, students explored strategies for maintaining milk safety, including proper handling practices, antibiotic residue testing, and screening for aflatoxin M1, that is found in the milk of animals that have ingested feed contaminated with aflatoxins. They also learned about the role of animal welfare, feed quality, sanitation and waste management in ensuring dairy productivity and sustainability.
Student Perspectives
Valentine Kampire, Environmental Health Sciences Major:
“I have gained a deeper understanding of how the One Health concept works. As a future healthcare provider, I am eager to address health challenges such as IPC, antimicrobial resistance, and zoonotic diseases through One Health principles. By working collaboratively across disciplines, we can build and sustain healthier communities.”
Eric Irankunda, Food Science Student:
“This training has reinforced my understanding of the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. I now recognize the importance of disease surveillance for early detection and response, as well as the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle global health challenges.”
Ernestine Niyomukiza, Final-Year Veterinary Medicine Student:
“Through this training, I have realized that addressing health challenges requires breaking down disciplinary barriers and fostering collaboration. No single sector can achieve One Health alone. Partnerships are key in developing sustainable solutions for a healthier future!”
Looking Forward
Emerging and re-emerging zoonotic diseases in Rwanda remains a risk and strengthening One Health education is critical to help the workforce collaboratively manage this risk. Providing future professionals with opportunities for hands-on, multidisciplinary learning will lay the foundation for effective transdisciplinary coordination, collaboration, and communication—essential elements in responding to complex health threats. Investing in One Health training is major step in building a resilient workforce ready to tackle the health challenges of tomorrow.