Medical Doctors for Choice (MDFC) hosted the Strengthening the Network of Abortion Providers (SNAP) Initiative, a five-day training workshop aimed at enhancing safe and compassionate abortion care in
Rwanda. Designed to include all district hospitals, the workshop’s first cohort brought together 48 healthcare providers, including medical doctors, midwives, and clinical psychologists from 16 district hospitals to build competencies, address stigma, and expand access to quality abortion service provision in Rwanda.
The training began with opening remarks by MDFC Ag. ED, Dr. Clarisse Mutimukeye, who set the stage for discussions on Values Clarification and Attitude Transformation (VCAT), facilitated by MDFC Deputy ED, Dr. Serge Ndagijimana Introduced what is Medical Doctors For Choice as an organization it’s history, vision and mission. Chris Ndahiro, through VCAT sessions, encourages participants to reflect on personal biases, cultural norms, and their impact on care delivery. Activities like “Close the Line” and “Four Corners” challenged participants to examine their beliefs, promoting a commitment to non-judgmental, patient-centered care.
Participants had the opportunity to explore Rwanda’s legal framework for abortion, addressing the five legal conditions for safe abortion and recent policy developments, including the December 2024 Ministerial Order. Discussions highlighted barriers such as stigma, resource shortages, and restrictive societal norms. Practical solutions included enhancing training, expanding medication access, and advocating for policy clarity.
Hands-on simulations allowed providers to refine their technical skills, ensuring readiness to deliver high-quality care. The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to advance equitable abortion care. Through collaborative efforts and continued advocacy, the SNAP Initiative underscored MDFC’s role in fostering a stigma-free, patient-centered healthcare environment in Rwanda.
