›› In this Issue ›› Word from the Director New Master Programme KfW Supervision Mission IVI Honorary Professors Professionalizing of Supply Chain Workforce Digital Health and Pooled Procurement Addressing Cold Chain Equipment Management Implementing Global Standards (GS1), Traceability & Verification System (TRVST) Our 1st Vaccinology short-course Talent Development through Upskilling Programs Publication of Scientific Articles Dissemination of Research Findings Research Projects by Students Upcoming Trainings Welcome to the 7th Edition of our Newsletter, where we share with you our latest news and updates on our innovative programs and initiatives at the East African Community Regional Centre of Excellence for Vaccines, Immunization, and Health Supply Chain Management(EACRCE-VIHSCM). EAC RCE -VIHSCM NEWSLETTER - 7th EDITION August 1, 2023
DIRECTOR’S WORD Like highlighted in our 6th edition, I am delighted to present this collection of exciting updates and achievements from the East African Community Regional Centre of Excellence for Vaccines, Immunization, and Health Supply Chain Management (EAC RCEVIHSM). The content of this newsletter highpoints our ongoing efforts to advance talent development for healthcare delivery, strengthen education, and foster innovative partnerships. Some of our biggest achievements during the period include the launch of our new MSc in Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Assurance. This two-year Programme aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure quality assurance and control in the vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. We were therefore thrilled to invite applications from public servants representing their respective EAC Partner States for this remarkable opportunity. In addition to the new MSc Programme, we have successfully conducted several training courses and workshops that empower healthcare professionals through upskilling programmes. These initiatives focus on enhancing knowledge through experiential learning, while equipping professionals with cutting age practices in addressing healthcare challenges. Further, our partnerships have been instrumental in driving progress and innovation. We were honoured to welcome a delegation from the KfW Development Bank for a fruitful supervision mission, strengthening cooperation and addressing challenges related to vulnerability and health system resilience. Following a high-level state visit by the Executive of the International Vaccines Institute (IVI), we concluded an MoU and partnership arrangement for collaboration. The IVI, located in South Korea is an institution that was created by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Government of South Korea to fast-track vaccine R&D, technology transfer, teaching and research in low- and middle-income countries. As icing on the cake, the Executives of IVI, namely Board Chair, DG and Deputy DG were appointed Honorary Professors of UR attached to EAC RCE-VIHSCM. The EAC RCE-VIHSM remains dedicated to promoting research excellence and knowledge dissemination. Thus we conducted a manuscript-writing workshop to empower our students to transform their dissertations into publishable scientific articles, fostering evidence-based information that can influence decision-making and policy development. With the increase in the number of publications, we believe, we will be contributing to the collective knowledge, yet driving positive change in healthcare practices. Additionally, we have made significant strides in digital health and data innovations within the EAC. Hence, we held a Regional Experts' Working Group (EWG) on Digital Health, Data, Technologies & Innovations (DIDATI) meeting to review and validate existing systems, develop interoperable digital architecture, and fostered a coordinated approach to strengthen the EAC's digital health system. I am therefore incredibly proud of the achievements and progress we have made at the previous period. These endeavors would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of our team, our partners, and the healthcare professionals within the EAC. Together, we are shaping the future of healthcare in the EAC, driving sustainable development, and improving the lives of countless individuals. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the German Development Cooperation through BMZ and KfW for their generous support, which has been instrumental this far. I also extend my appreciation to all the participants, stakeholders, and partners who contribute to our shared vision of advancing healthcare in the East African Community. I invite you to explore this collection of articles, celebrate our achievements, and join us in shaping a brighter future for healthcare in the EAC. Dr. Stephen Karengera, Director, EAC RCE-VIHSCM University of Rwanda
MSc in Pharmaceutical Analysis & Quality Assurance We are thrilled to announce the launch of our latest program, the Master of Science (MSc) in Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Assurance, offered by the EAC RCE-VIHSCM. This two-year program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure quality control and assurance in the vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, health product inspection and auditing, as well as health product research and development (R&D). The MSc in Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Assurance program will be delivered using a blended learning approach, to cater for the in-service students. It will involve a combination of face-to-face (on-site) learning, off-campus learning, and field placements/ industrial attachments. EAC RCE-VIHSCM offers scholarships to health professionals in public institutions within the EAC Partner States. Applications were invited for the 1st Cohort from public servants representing the Republic of Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, United Republic of Tanzania (Mainland and Zanzibar), and the Republic of Uganda. The programme is is set to start in the September, 2023. This new Master's program presents a remarkable opportunity for individuals passionate about pharmaceutical analysis and quality assurance to further their expertise and contribute to the advancement of healthcare standards in our EAC region. Call for applications; June—July, 2023
A team from KfW on a supervision mission KfW Bank delegation meeting with MINEDUC, UR and EAC RCE-VIHSCM officials In a promising partnership aimed at advancing education in East Africa, the East African Community Regional Centre of Excellence (VIHSCM) recently welcomed a delegation from KfW Development Bank for a fruitful supervision mission from May 10th to 12th, 2023. The mission commenced with a courtesy call at the Ministry of Education, led by Mr. Charles Karakye, the Permanent Secretary. During the meeting, esteemed attendees included Dr. Didas Kayihura Muganga, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, Ms. Melina Albat, the KfW Portfolio Manager for East Africa & African Union, Eng. Achim Jaup, a highly regarded Senior Technical Advisor at KfW, Ms. Charlotte Povel, Director of KfW Office Rwanda, Ms. Francoise Tengera Kayitare, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Raymond Ndikumana, and Dr. Stephen Karengera, Director of EAC RCEVIHSCM among others. The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation between the EAC RCE-VIHSCM and KfW Development Bank, focusing on their joint efforts to enhance the education landscape in East Africa. During the courtesy call, Mr. Charles Karakye expressed his gratitude to KfW Development Bank for their interest in collaborating with the EAC RCE-VIHSCM, recognizing the significant potential such a partnership holds for the advancement of education in East Africa. He emphasized the importance of joint efforts in building resilience, strengthening health systems, and promoting quality education to overcome challenges faced by the EAC region. Dr. Didas Kayihura Muganga, Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, shared his institution's commitment to contributing expertise and resources to the collaborative initiatives between the EAC RCE-VIHSCM and KfW Development Bank. He underscored the importance of sustainable development and the role of education in creating resilient societies. Ms. Melina Albat, representing KfW Development Bank, acknowledged the valuable work of the EAC RCE-VIHSCM and expressed her enthusiasm for the potential impact their collaboration could have in East Africa. She highlighted KfW's dedication to supporting innovative projects and fostering partnerships that drive positive change. The courtesy call concluded with an agreement to strengthen the present partnership while further exploring potential areas of cooperation. As this enhanced collaboration unfolds, KfW commended the Centre to scale up its positive outcomes that will arise from the combined expertise and resources of both institutions. These joint efforts hold the potential to create a brighter future for education and resilience in East Africa, fostering sustainable development and improving the lives of countless individuals across the EAC region. Finally, the delegation visited the site where the RCE-VIHSCM construction will take place.
UR appoints IVI Officials as Honorary Professors The University of Rwanda proudly announced the appointment of three esteemed officials from the International Vaccines Institute (IVI) as Honorary Professors attached to the EAC-RCE VIHSCM. Dr. Jerome Kim, the IVI Director General, George Bickerstaff, Chair of IVI Board of Trustees, and Dr. T. Anh Wartel, the IVI Deputy DG, were recognized for their exceptional expertise and reputation in the health sector, particularly in Vaccinology. This noteworthy development follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IVI and the University of Rwanda, with a focus on strengthening vaccines capacity building and research in EAC. The appointment of these IVI officials as Honorary Professors solidifies the commitment of the Centre in advancing healthcare supply chain management and enhancement of vaccination programs in the East African Community (EAC). Dr. Stephen Karengera, the Director of Centre, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Jerome Kim, George Bickerstaff, and Dr. T. Anh Wartel as Honorary Professors attached to our Centre. Their extensive experience and knowledge will be invaluable in advancing our goals of upskilling healthcare professionals, and in the promotion of vaccination programs, and research within the EAC." The cooperation between IVI, the University of Rwanda, and EAC RCE-VIHSCM holds great promise for enhancing healthcare outcomes in the EAC. The cooperation will contribute to the advancement of healthcare delivery, ensuring the availability of essential vaccines across East Africa. As collaboration progresses, the Centre envisions a future where healthcare professionals in EAC are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the challenges in vaccine distribution and management effectively. Through this joint effort, the EA community will benefit from improved healthcare services, enhanced immunization programs, and strengthened research capacity. L-R: Dr. Jerome Kim, the IVI Director General, Dr. T. Anh Wartel, the IVI Deputy DG & George Bickerstaff, Chair of IVI Board
Professionalizing Health Supply Chain Workforce From 5th to 7th June 2023 - Representatives from Republics of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, the United Republic of Tanzania, and Uganda gathered in Kigali, Republic of Rwanda for a groundbreaking meeting focused on professionalizing their countries' health supply chain workforce. The EAC RCE–VIHSCM organized the sensitisation meeting in collaboration with People that Deliver (PtD), with an aim of build awareness of key stakeholders about HSCM professionalization, secure their buy-in, map country stakeholders to be involved and lead the professionalization activity; thus, ensure a high- level advocacy through implementation of all steps of HSCM professionalization In her opening remarks, Dominique Zwinkels, the Executive Manager of PtD, expressed her appreciation for the presence and active participation of all delegates. “All of these countries are here because they see professionalisation of the supply chain workforce as fundamental to strengthening their health supply chain, “she said. "Professionalization of the supply chain workforce is crucial for the enhancement of health supply chain and eventually ensuring the availability of vital healthcare resources," Zwinkels affirmed. Dr. Stephen Karengera, the Director of EAC RCEVIHSCM, also conveyed his delight at the opportunity for EAC partner states to collaborate on professionalizing the health supply chain. He underscored the significance of investing in this sector as a top priority for the EAC region to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 and achieve universal health coverage. The three-day meeting witnessed the participation of various professionals actively engaged in prossionalising the health supply chain workforce. The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, Africa Resource Center for Excellence in Supply Chain Management in Nigeria, the USAID Global Health Supply Chain Program-Procurement and Supply Management project in Rwanda, HELP Logistics, and VillageReach all participated and contributed their expertise and perspectives. Using the PtD's SCM professionalization framework document, the event provided an invaluable platform for delegates to learn from one another and develop country-specific roadmaps to guide the steps required for attaining a professionalized supply chain workforce. Moreover, participants engaged in robust conversations about the importance of professionalization in strengthening health supply chain yet ensuring the availability of health commodities. PtD Executive Manager Dominique Zwinkels giving remarks Participants of the Professionalization meeting held in Kigali, Rwanda
Advancing Digital Health and Data Innovations Participants at the Pooled Procurement Model Workshop The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat, in collaboration with the EAC RCE-VIHSCM, conducted and concluded a highly successful meeting of the EAC Regional Experts' Working Group (EWG) on Digital Health, Data, Technologies & Innovations (DIDATI). The six-day event, held at the Nairobi Safari Club in Nairobi, Republic of Kenya from 22-27 May, 2023, aimed to further advance digital health and data innovations within the EAC, thus, customize the existing EAC digital infrastructure and develop the EAC Pooled Procurement Digital Platform. The meeting served as a follow-up to a regional gathering held in Entebbe, Uganda, earlier in March 2023 to validate the EAC Pooled Procurement Market Survey and discuss the operationalization model of the EAC Pooled Procurement Framework. Distinguished participants included EAC Focal persons for Health from Ministries responsible for Health and EAC Affairs, Heads of ICTs from National/Central Medical Stores, EAC Pooled Procurement Market Survey focal persons from each Partner State, and Digital health and ICT leads in Ministries and Government agencies. The meeting yielded significant outcomes that set the stage for progress in the digitization and interoperability of the EAC digital health system. Key achievements included the establishment of technical specifications for the EAC Pooled Procurement information sharing, agreement on the design of the PPM digital system, and the development of a draft EAC health data governance framework. These milestones signify a step forward in strengthening collaboration and coordination among EAC Partner States in the realm of digital health and data innovations. The EAC Secretariat, in close cooperation with the EAC RCE-VIHSCM, remains dedicated to promoting a sustainable and integrated approach to digital health and data innovations within the East African Community. As the EAC continues its journey towards a digitized and interconnected health system, stakeholders and partners are encouraged to actively contribute to the ongoing efforts.
TRAINING Cold Chain Equipment Management and Remote Temperature Monitoring (CCEM) is one of professional short courses delivered by EAC RCEVIHSCM. The short course was developed to respond to the critical skills gap in the field of Equipment management to ensure the potency of vaccines during the storage and transportation of vaccines from one level to another. With funding support from German Development Cooperation (BMZ) through German Bank for Development (KfW), EAC RCE-VIHSCM has taken proactive steps to develop the much-needed training course. The journey began in March and April of this year when the EAC RCE-VIHSCM conducted a regional Training of Trainers course (TOT) for selected participants from the EAC Partner States, who will then be responsible to train others in their home countries. Following the successful CCEM Training of Trainers (ToTs), the short course has been expanded and is currently being conducted as in-country training sessions across all EAC Partner States. This approach guarantees broader accessibility and increased effectiveness of the much-needed skills. The in-country CCEM short course was first implemented in Uganda from May 22nd – June 2nd, 2023. The course was attended by 30 participants from various institutions, including the National Immunization Programme, National Medical Stores CCE Experts, regional vaccines warehouse cold chain staff, hospitals, and Biomedical Engineers etc. The course modules, presentations and discussions focused on addressing performance challenges of the immunization program at central & health facility levels. The CCEM in-country short course for Rwanda kicked off on June 12, 2023 with 32 trainees joining from the Ministry of Health and its affiliated institutions: Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA), different Hospitals across the country and Rwanda Medical Supply (RMS Ltd). Participants expressed their satisfaction with the course and affirmed that the knowledge and skills acquired during the training would empower them to make meaningful and positive contributions in their respective professional capacities. On citing one of the lessons retained from the training, Mr. Abraham Kwizera, a Biomedical Engineer at Dream Medical Centre hospital noted, "The cold chain process goes beyond equipment & skilled personnel. It also requires the right management procedure to ensure timely delivery of quality vaccines to the right user, in the right quantities & temperature", he stated. The 2-week course closed on June 23, 202 Mr. Abraham Kwizera sharing appreciation remarks CCEM Rwanda trainees CCEM Uganda trainees Addressing Cold Chain Equipment Management
GS1, Traceability & Verification System (TRVST) The training, held from 5th to 9th June 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda, aimed to equip EAC health supply chain professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure the delivery of the right health commodities to patients in need with respect to global standards. This significant training was a direct outcome of a kick-off workshop and Training of Trainers (TOT) held in January and April 2023, during which a new curriculum focused on Global Standards, Traceability, and Verification Systems (TRVST) was developed. The participants of the short-course training included experts from National Medicines Regulatory Agencies, National Medical Stores, and Immunization Programs in the EAC. The collaboration between the Centre, the UNICEF Supply Division, GS1 Healthcare, USAID GHSPSM Country office, and the Rwanda Food & Drugs Authority yielded two major outcomes. First, a Pool of Champions for Global Standards and Traceability was established, creating a network of professionals who will actively contribute to the implementation of related activities. Second, the training introduced the Global Standards, Traceability, and Verification Systems (GS and TRVST) within the EAC partner states, paving way for enhanced health practices within the East African Community to reduce the falsified medicines in the region. With the newly established pool of experts, the Centre is confident that it will scale up the implementation of global standards throughout the EAC. Efforts are underway to ensure that the newly developed course becomes widely accessible to healthcare workers within the wider community. It should be understood that equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools provided by GS1&TRVST standards, the Centre aimed to enhance the management of the medicines supply chain, improve operational efficiency, and eventually deliver better healthcare services to communities within the EAC region. The GS1&TRVST standards hold global recognition and are widely employed to ensure the accuracy, safety, and reliability of supply chain operations in the healthcare sector. Therefore, adopting these standards, the Centre and its partners are demonstrating their commitment to implementing best practices and leveraging internationally recognized frameworks to strengthen the health supply chain management. Participants at the GS1 & TRVST short course training pose for a photo On 9th June 2023 - The Centre successful concluded the first short-course training on Global Standards and Traceability and Verification Systems (GS&TRVST) in collaboration with key partners such as the UNICEF Supply Division, GS1 Healthcare, USAID GHSPSM Country office, and the Rwanda Food & Drugs Authority. GS1 & TRSVT Participants during a discussion session
Launching of the Vaccinology short course Participants of the Vaccinology short course at Ubumwe Hotel, Kigali Kigali, June 26th -30th 2023 - The EAC RCE-VIHSCM marked a significant milestone with the successful launch of its first-ever Vaccinology short course. The event, held at Ubumwe hotel in Kigali, gathered participants from the EAC Partner States who were eager to enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of vaccines. Dr. Domina Asingizwe, the RCE Research Coordinator, representing the Director of the EAC RCEVIHSCM, welcomed all the participants and highlighted the significance of this inaugural course to the EAC region. “This course aims at bridging the knowledge gap in vaccinology within the EAC, while fostering collaboration among professionals working in public health sectors”, she noted. Over the course of the training, participants had the opportunity to engage in-depth discussions, shared best practices, and gain practical insights into the latest advancements in vaccine research, development, and strategies to make them accessible. Prof. Joe Schmitt, one of the subject matter experts and renowned figure in global health, from Global Health Press Pte Ltd, commended the EAC RCE-VIHSCM for its commitment to advancing vaccinology education in the region. “This initiative demonstrates the East African Community's dedication to fostering a wellinformed and skilled workforce in the field of vaccines. Equipping professionals with the latest scientific knowledge and expertise is a good avenue to collectively address public health challenges, while working together towards achieving better health outcomes”, he remarked The Centre's Vaccinology short course marks a significant step and commitment towards building a skilled workforce and fostering EAC cooperation in the field of vaccines. As the inaugural training concluded on June 30th, 32 participants were awarded certificates and encouraged to remain committed to advancing vaccine programs in order to drive impactful change within the region. Vaccinology course participants with expert trainers
Talent Development through Upskilling Programs The Centre continues its journey and commitment to developing talent in Vaccine Manufacturing through upskilling healthcare professionals’ within the East African Community (EAC). These upskilling courses offered by the Centre focus on valuable practical exposure through internships, site visits, and exchange programs. More so, the initiatives aim to equip healthcare professionals with enhanced learning opportunities, fostering standardized practices and addressing the region's healthcare challenges. In collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority of Ghana, the EAC RCE-VIHSCM organized a twoweek short course on Clinical Trial Authorization - Good Clinical Practice Module. Held from May 22nd to June 2nd , 2023, in Accra, Ghana, the program aimed at enhancing the capacity of healthcare professionals responsible for Clinical Trial Authorization, Good Clinical Practice or Clinical Research in the EAC Partner States. Participants included experts from institutions such as the National Medicines Regulatory Agency in EAC Member States the Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the National Institute for Medical Research in Tanzania, the Zanzibar Health Research Institute and the Rwanda Biomedical Centre. Photos: Attendees of Clinical Trial Authorization and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Upskilling course in Ghana Clinical Trial Authorization-Good Clinical Practice Upskilling Course in Accra, Ghana
Introductory Course for Biologics Development & Manufacturing by IVI, South Korea Fifteen (15) participants from the EAC Member States were among the 180 trainees from over 40 countries who successfully completed the Introduction to Biologics Development & Manufacturing training at Seoul National University Siheung Campus, South Korea, from June 19th to 30th, 2023. Organized by the International Vaccines Institute (IVI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Republic of South Korea (MOHW), and the World Health Organization, this course aimed at equipping participants with the necessary skills for local production of vaccines and biologics. The training addressed gaps in the existing body of knowledge in the areas of vaccinology, biologics manufacturing and regulatory affairs. In light of this, the Centre provided sponsorship to 15 eligible participants, ensuring equitable representation of all EAC Partner States. Upskilling Course in Analytical Techniques in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. In partnership with Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), the EAC RCE-VIHSCM conducted and concluded an upskilling short course focused on Analytical Techniques Development and Validation. Held at MUHAS, School of Pharmacy Quality Control Lab, from June 19th to 30th, 2023, the workshop aimed to strengthen professionals responsible for pharmaceutical quality control in the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRAs) from EAC Member States with comprehensive knowledge and skills in the development and validation of analytical techniques. Participants at the IVI Biologics Development& Manufacturing Upskilling course by IVI Some participants after certificates award Upskilling course participants at MUHAS
EAC RCE-VIHSCM concluded a highly successful manuscript-writing workshop aimed at increasing the number of scientific articles published in peerreviewed journals in the areas of Vaccines, Immunization, and Health Supply Chain Management. The workshop, held from 19th to 23rd June 2023, provided students with a unique opportunity to transform their dissertations into publishable manuscripts, fostering evidence-based information that can influence decision-making and policy development. The comprehensive workshop focused on training participants in manuscript writing, review, revision, and finalization, ensuring their readiness for submission to esteemed peer-reviewed journals. Attendees included authors of the manuscripts who are recent graduates of the MHSCM 3rd cohort, supervisors of the participating students, and senior researchers to support students in the review and revision of the manuscripts. Throughout the workshop, students were equipped with essential skills to effectively prepare, review, and finalize their manuscripts, effectively communicating their research findings. Additionally, the event provided a platform for the dissemination of research findings from EAC RCE-VIHSCM awardees, further advancing the collective knowledge in the field of Vaccines, Immunization and Health Supply Chain Management. The EAC RCE-VIHSCM Research Coordinator. Domina Asingizwe, expressed her enthusiasm for the workshop, recognizing its importance in increasing the dissemination of research findings and evidence-based practices. "This manuscript writing training is a crucial step in our efforts to foster a culture of knowledgesharing and contribute to evidence generation that informs policies and interventions in VIHSCM within the region," she remarked. The Manuscript-writing workshop aligns with one of the key performance indicators of the Centre, which aims to increase the number of scientific articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Therefore, supporting students in refining their dissertations and preparing them for publication, the center is actively promoting the dissemination of valuable research findings, eventually advancing healthcare practices within the East African Community. As the Centre keeps pace with its endeavors to increase the number of scientific articles published, it remains committed to providing students and researchers with the necessary skills and support to effectively communicate their research findings. With such initiatives like manuscript writing workshops, the Centre is poised to contribute to the advancement of healthcare in the EAC and drive evidence-based decision-making and policy development. With each manuscript publication, the collective knowledge in the field of VIHSCM expands, leading to improved healthcare systems and better health outcomes for communities across the East African Community. Attendees of the Manuscript Writing workshop Research Empowering students to Publish Scientific Articles
Dissemination of Research Findings On 19th June 2023, recipients of the first cohort of the research grants came together in Musanze, Rwanda, to share their groundbreaking research findings. The two -day meeting served as a platform for researchers from United Republic of Tanzania, and Uganda to present their outcomes and discuss the challenges encountered during the implementation of their projects. The purpose of the meeting was to disseminate the valuable research findings obtained through the EAC RCE-VIHSCM grants. These grants have been instrumental in supporting and promoting research excellence and innovation in the field of Vaccines, Immunization, and Health Supply Chain Management. The meeting brought together 4 receipts of the grant and 5 new awardees. During the meeting, the four (4) receipts (grantees) seized the opportunity to highlight the outcomes of their research projects, shedding light on significant advancements and novel approaches to their work. Further, the researchers openly discussed the hurdles they encountered during the implementation phase, providing insights into the practical realities of conducting research in the field of VIHSCM. This candid sharing of challenges not only demonstrated the resilience and determination of the grantees but also served to inform future awardees, equipping them with the necessary guidelines and tools to navigate the research process effectively. The meeting served as evidence to the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, transcending borders and fostering a regional community of researchers united by a common goal. The researchers' collective commitment to excellence and innovation promises to bring about tangible improvements in VIHSCM, eventually benefiting communities across the East African community. As the EAC RCE-VIHSCM looks ahead, it anticipates further breakthroughs and continued support for impactful research in VIHSCM. It is clear that the outcomes of the meeting underscore the vital role of research in addressing healthcare supply chain challenges, and it is through such collective efforts that transformative change can be achieved. Manuscript writing workshop for Masters in Health Supply Chain Management 2nd intake
Research projects by students First Cohort: 1. Comparing vaccine wastage rates, knowledge and practices of health workers in urban and rural districts in Uganda. Implemented by the School of Public Health, Makerere University. 2. Improving Vaccine Supply Chain in Uganda: A Case study of a costed Informed Push Model. Implemented by the School of Public Health, Makerere University. 3. Assessment of the functionality of vaccine supply chain system in selected regions of Tanzania. Implemented by Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences. 4. Assessment of the use of technologies and innovations for vaccines, immunisation and health supply chain management (VIHSCM) and its effects on access and utilisation of vaccine and immunization services in mainland Tanzania for strengthening VIHSCM system through integration and translation into policies. Implemented by Mzumbe University 5. A Cross-Sectional Survey of the Affordability and Availability and Price of Medicines in 8 counties in Central and Eastern Kenya. Implemented by Kirinyaga County – Department of Medical Services, Public. Participants in a group discussion at one of the EAC RCE-VIHSCM Research workshops 2 nd Cohort: 1. Improving the effective vaccines management in the EAC: case of Rwanda. To be implemented by the University of Rwanda. 2. Evaluation of the use of Epi-tracker software for immunization, registration and reporting in Rwanda. To be implemented by the University of Rwanda. 3. Modelling the Cost-Effectiveness and Budget Impact Analysis of Introducing Malaria Vaccination Program in Burundi. To be implemented by Burundi National Malaria Control Programme. 4. Access to Covid-19 information among rural communities in East Africa: the case of Tanzania and Kenya. To be implemented by the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences. 5. Factors influencing access to lifesaving medicines for victims of insect and animal envenomation in Mkinga district of Tanzania. To be implemented by the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences.
August 2023 TOT on Use of Minilabs Equipment (Short Course Mix) CCE Management for Kenya MOH Staff September 2023 Cold Chain Equipment (CCE) Management for South Sudan TOT on Effective Vaccine Management (EVMA) in partnership with WHO & UNICEF SD CCE Management for Tanzania Dossier Analysis (with USP/PQM+) Physico-chemical and Microbiological Quality Control October 2023 CCE Management for Uganda Use of Minilabs Equipment for Rwanda Use of Minilabs Equipment for United Republic of Tanzania Good Manufacturing Practices (with USP/PQM+) Pharmaceuticals Quality Control (with USP/PQM+) November, 2023 CCE Management for Rwanda Analytical Techniques - Equipment Qualification & Calibration, Proficiency Testing, Handling of Out-of Specifications (OOS) Lot Release and Lab test for Vaccines, 2 slots Good Practices (GxPs) December, 2023 Sustainable Procurement Management for health commodities with UNICEF SD Analytical Techniques - Methods development and validation (2nd round) Upcoming Trainings (August – December, 2023) The (EAC) Regional Centre of Excellence for Vaccines, Immunisation and Health Supply Chain Management (RCE-VIHSCM) is one of the six EAC Regional Centres of Excellence for Skills and Tertiary Education in the Higher Medical and Health Sciences Education, Health Services &Research. Housed at the University of Rwanda, the Centre was established to contribute to the improved health of the people of the East African Community by building supply chain management capacity for EAC personnel and to act as a regional focal point for the introduction and dissemination of innovative and proven procedures in health supply chain management. Our vision is to become an autonomous, well-recognized, top-class, regional knowledge hub, providing high-quality pre- and in-service training and disseminating best practices in vaccines, immunization and health supply chain management. Our mission is to contribute to solving existing performance challenges of the health supply chain management (HSCM) system in the EAC region through the generation of knowledge and its translation into research, policy and practice. @EacRceVihscm EacRce Vihscm https://hscm.ur.ac.rw [email protected] Contact Us About EAC RCE-VIHSCM Eac Rce-Vihscm