Conclusion
Thus far in the pandemic, Rwanda has one of the lowest incidence rates of COVID-19 infection on the African continent. This is a testament to the country’s early planning and aggressive use of innovative strategies. Rwanda formed a six month National COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan that detailed protocols for early testing, contact tracing, community health workers outreach, strengthening communication with the public, screening of travelers at ports of entry, and identifying and assessing countries’ hot spots.20 The use of social media platforms for public communication, drones/robots to disseminate accurate information, and national toll free numbers have been key successful public health responses.8 Rwanda was able to begin easing lockdown restrictions on May 4, 2020 and has continued to lift or reinstate restrictions based on continuous risk assessment.17 Although the trajectory of this virus is hard to predict due to its novelty, innovative strategies used in Rwanda may also be beneficial in other settings.