Dr. Christian Ntizimira recognized by Harvard Medical School for his Global Health Work
A Rwandan Doctor has scooped a prestigious “Harvard Global Health Catalyst: Distinguished Young Leader Award.”
Dr. Christian Ntizimira was presented with the award on April 28th in recognition for his innovative approaches to palliative care, his advocacy around the integration of Palliative Care in health systems, and his active role in the Lancet Commission on Global Access to Palliative Care and Pain Control.
“The Ministry of Health has created a platform on which advocates, activists, and civil societies can continue to work with our Government to support the implementation and integration of Palliative Care in Rwanda,” Dr. Ntizimira said in his acceptance speech.
The event was also attended by a delegation from Rwanda led by Minister of Health Dr. Diane Gashumba.
Dr. Ntizimira a former Director of Kibagabaga District Hospital in Kigali said, “this is an award for the patients and families in Rwanda who are facing serious illness.”
“This award shows me that it is possible to impact global health by starting at a local level,” he said, adding that by engaging global health partnerships and “keeping an attitude of collaboration, openness, and innovation, disparities can be tackled,” He said.
Dr. Christian Ntizimira (2nd r) and family, (extreme left) Rwanda’s Minister of Health Dr. Diane Gashumba at the Award ceremony
The Rwandan physician is among other four candidates honoured with awards at the annual Global Health Catalyst Summit held at Harvard Medical School in Boston, MA of the United States.
Prof. David Kerr was awarded the Harvard Global Health Catalyst: Distinguished Leader Award, Ahmed Elzawawy won the Harvard Global Health Catalyst: African Ambassador Award and Melvin Foote also scooped the Harvard Global Catalyst: African Diaspora Ambassador Award.
Meanwhile, Dikembe Mutombo a NBA Legend and Basket Ball Hall of Fame was awarded with of the Harvard Global Catalyst: Humanitarian Award.
