MUSANZE-KINIGI: Locals Call for Fencing and Renovation of Bisate Health Center

MUSANZE-KINIGI: Locals Call for Fencing and Renovation of Bisate Health Center

By Libos Ndayishimiye

Residents seeking medical services at Bisate Health Center, located in Kinigi Sector in Musanze District, are raising concerns over the facility’s lack of a perimeter fence, which they say compromises their privacy and security.

They point out that while the proximity of the health center has greatly improved access to healthcare, the fact that it remains unfenced makes them feel exposed, even when seeking treatment for sensitive conditions. Passersby and animals can easily enter the premises, making patients uncomfortable.

Those receiving care at the facility report that the absence of a fence results in a lack of tranquility, as random people move through the compound on unrelated business, and livestock occasionally wanders into the center.

Claudine Nyiragendahimana, a resident of Kinigi Sector, said that when she comes to give birth or visit a patient, the environment does not reflect the level of security and dignity expected in a health facility, especially for those in critical condition.

She said, “Sometimes we’re waiting for services and see animals walking near us. A mother in labor or someone seriously ill needs peace and hygiene, but the lack of fencing affects our sense of security and dignity.”

Another woman, Mukaneza Anathalie, shared her experience of giving birth at the facility, saying she was embarrassed by the open nature of the surroundings.

“I was in the delivery room while doctors were attending to other patients, and I noticed people passing by and peeking through the windows. I can’t say for sure whether they saw me exposed,” she said.

Residents are now urging the local authorities to build a fence and renovate the facility to improve patient privacy, safety, and overall quality of care.

Theogene Tuyisenge, the Head of Bisate Health Center, also confirmed that the lack of a perimeter fence is a major challenge for the facility.

He stated, “Because the health center is not fenced, livestock from nearby residents often graze within the compound, which compromises the hygiene required in such an environment. There are times when we are attending to patients and get distracted by people passing through the premises on their way to other activities and if you’re not careful, you might even bump into them.”

He further acknowledged that this affects the quality of services delivered, adding that health workers themselves feel embarrassed working in a space where they cannot guarantee the full privacy and security of their patients.

The Mayor of Musanze District, Claudien Nsengimana, confirmed the issue is known and will be addressed as resources become available.

He said, “As a district, we have a plan to fence and renovate health centers gradually, depending on budget availability. This particular health center wasn’t included in the current year’s budget, but it is on the list of facilities to be prioritized in the near future.”

Bisate Health Center is one of the oldest in the area, built in 1973. It still operates with aging infrastructure, including worn-out roofing sheets and limited working space that no longer matches the increasing patient volume.

The facility currently serves over 20,000 people, and there is an urgent need to expand its capacity to ensure the continued delivery of quality healthcare in line with national health goals.