Epilepsy is a disabling condition that has recently had a major impact on the Rwandan population. Handicap International has launched an ambitious project to combat the disorder.

Epilepsy is shockingly widespread in Rwanda today, with a prevalence rate of 4.9%*. The disease is the chief complaint in both of Rwanda's main neuropsychiatric centers, and the number of people seeking help for epilepsy in Kigali also represents 40-50% of all medical complaints over the last eight years.

These figures are based on a study conducted in 2005 by the Ministry for Health, and reveal the problem as a major public health crisis. Similarly enlightening, recent research in Rwanda discovered that 90% of seizures are generalized, and 50% are associated with a history of head injuries. The high proportion of seizures induced by head trauma there is most probably due to the 1994 genocide, where many civilians suffered such injuries.

Handicap International has risen to the challenge of fighting epilepsy in Rwanda with the launch of a new project. Its goal is to guarantee affordable care for children under 12 who suffer from the illness. The project opens possibilities of leading a normal life for affected children who would otherwise face uncertain futures.  

Given the sheer number of those affected, Handicap International has made their strategy in Rwanda as far-reaching and comprehensive as possible. A major component of the plan is working directly with health professionals in neuropsychiatric facilities to enhance their diagnostic skills and knowledge of suitable treatment protocols. As a result, patients will be ensured follow-up appointments. In medical areas covered by the project, Handicap International will guarantee the constant supply of anti-epileptic drugs, improving treatment continuity. Children suffering from epilepsy will be diagnosed and referred to health institutions by our staff along with the support of local authorities, community health workers and influential figures in communities.

Outreach to such individuals (local authorities, people with community influence in targeted districts, educators) is another main component of the program. School teachers and school authorities are currently being taught effective management of children suffering from epilepsy. Hoping to capture the attention of Rwandan authorities, the Ministry of Health and other non-governmental organizations as well, HI has launched a series of media campaigns (advertising spots, radio programs, TV documentaries, etc.) raising awareness about epilepsy. Our team in Rwanda also currently backs the creation of a Rwandan Epilepsy League, and is providing assistance to the Ministry for Health in drawing up a National Epilepsy Action Plan.  

The project will focus on four districts in Rwanda -  Rusizi, Gisagara, Ngoma and Rutsiro - for a period of one year each.

^{* The prevalence rate expresses the frequency with which an event occurs in a population at a given time.}

^{**The survey was conducted to discover the prevalence, knowledge, perception of and attitudes towards epilepsy among health professionals and the population at large.}