Rwanda and Egypt have announced plans to launch a state-of-the-art heart treatment and research center in Kigali by 2026, which is expected to become a regional hub for advanced cardiovascular care.
The Magdi Yacoub Heart Centre (MY Heart Centre) began construction in late 2021, following the groundbreaking ceremony officiated by First Lady Jeannette Kagame at a 4.4-hectare site in Masaka, Kicukiro District.
The update was shared during a recent meeting between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Jean Patrick Olivier Nduhungirehe and his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, on the sidelines of the official inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on November 1, 2025.
Minister Abdelatty reaffirmed that Egypt remains committed to ensuring the center becomes operational by 2026, in line with the directive of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, emphasizing the project’s importance in saving lives—particularly among underprivileged communities who will receive free treatment.
Once completed, the center will feature 30 modern hospital beds, advanced laboratories, and research facilities dedicated to cardiovascular studies. It aims to offer a full range of services—from diagnosis to complex heart surgeries—while serving as a training hub for medical professionals across Africa.
Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub, the founder of the organization behind the hospital, stated that the Rwandan branch will provide free, high-quality healthcare services, especially to low-income patients.
“The Rwanda Heart Care and Research Foundation will deliver world-class cardiac care free of charge to the most vulnerable populations, while also equipping young doctors, nurses, and scientists with internationally recognized expertise,” he said.
The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised Rwanda’s unwavering political will and rapid development journey, reaffirming Egypt’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s Vision 2050. Both ministers also discussed strengthening cooperation in peace, security, and development across Africa.
The ministry further emphasized the importance of collaboration between Rwanda and Egypt in promoting regional stability, particularly in the Great Lakes Region, and expanding partnerships through Africa-based initiatives and projects.
Egypt commended the strong and growing bilateral relationship between the two nations, which was further reinforced during President Paul Kagame’s visit to Cairo in September 2025.
Rwanda also recognized the contribution of Egyptian private investors in various sectors, including construction, water infrastructure, and industrial development.
Both countries are committed to expanding cooperation in pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment production, health tourism, textile and food industries, and general tourism. Egyptian investors have expressed strong interest in tapping into Rwanda’s favorable investment climate and strategic business environment.
On matters concerning the Nile River Basin, Egypt reaffirmed that its cooperation with Rwanda is guided by international law and the shared benefits derived from the river system.
